PART 10: The God of the Bible and Allah of the Qur’an

There are Muslims who reject violence, live peacefully with others, and understand their faith differently from radical Islamist movements.

However, this chapter is examining what radical Islamist groups and governments teach and practice, including groups such as ISIS, Hamas, Hezbollah, and the ideology promoted by the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The purpose is not to judge every individual Muslim by the actions of extremists.

The purpose is to examine the teachings and practices of radical Islam and compare them with biblical Christianity.

Truth requires that beliefs be examined by what they actually teach, not merely by how individuals may personally interpret them.

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The Meaning of Peace

Many Muslims explain that the word “Islam” is connected with submission and peace.

However, the meaning of “peace” must be examined carefully.

Biblical peace is reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ.

Paul wrote:

> “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1 NASB)

True peace begins with a restored relationship with God.

Radical Islamist ideology often understands peace differently:

Peace is achieved when society submits to Islamic authority and Islamic law.

Those who submit are considered to be living in peace.

Those who reject that authority may be viewed as enemies or obstacles to that peace.

This is a fundamentally different understanding of peace.

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The Qur’an and the People of the Book

The Qur’an contains passages addressing Jews and Christians, often referred to as the “People of the Book.”

One passage says:

> “And do not argue with the People of the Book except in a way that is best, except for those who commit injustice among them. And say, ‘We believe in what has been revealed to us and what has been revealed to you. And our God and your God is one, and we are Muslims [submitting] to Him.'” (Qur’an 29:46)

Many Muslims point to verses like this as evidence of peaceful relations with Christians and Jews.

However, radical Islamist interpretations also appeal to later passages concerning warfare and submission.

This has created a long-standing debate within Islam about how these passages should be understood.

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The Concept of Abrogation

A major concept in traditional Islamic interpretation is abrogation (naskh).

This is the belief that some later Qur’anic revelations can replace or supersede earlier ones when there appears to be a conflict.

Some radical Islamist movements use this concept to argue that later military passages override earlier calls for tolerance.

This is why groups such as ISIS and other extremist movements have appealed to certain passages to justify violence against non-Muslims.

However, many Muslims reject these interpretations and do not believe such passages authorize violence today.

The important point is that radical Islam bases its arguments on Islamic texts and traditions, even though other Muslims dispute their conclusions.

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Jizya and the Status of Non-Muslims

Historically, some Islamic governments applied a system known as jizya, a tax placed upon certain non-Muslim communities living under Muslim rule.

The Qur’an states:

> “Fight those who do not believe in Allah… until they give the jizyah willingly while they are humbled.” (Qur’an 9:29)

Radical Islamist groups have interpreted this as requiring Christians and Jews living under Islamic rule to either:

Submit to Islamic authority and pay jizya,

Convert to Islam,

Or face punishment.

Historically, the application of jizya has varied greatly across different Muslim societies.

However, radical Islamist groups have used this concept to justify discrimination and persecution against religious minorities.

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The Treatment of Apostasy

One of the most controversial issues within Islam is the traditional punishment for apostasy—the abandonment of Islam.

Many classical Islamic scholars held that apostasy from Islam carried the death penalty.

Some modern Muslims reject this view and argue for freedom of conscience.

However, radical Islamist movements continue to enforce or support punishment against those who leave Islam.

This creates a serious contrast with biblical Christianity.

Jesus never commanded His followers to force people into faith.

He said:

> “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would be fighting.” (John 18:36 NASB)

Christianity spreads through the proclamation of the Gospel, not through political domination or forced conversion.

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The Silence and Fear Within Radical Islamic Societies

Another difficult issue is the response of Muslims who disagree with radical interpretations.

Some Muslims actively oppose extremism.

Others may remain silent because of fear of persecution, imprisonment, violence, or social consequences.

In some countries controlled by radical Islamist movements, Muslims who oppose extremist interpretations can themselves become victims.

This demonstrates that radical Islam does not only affect Christians and Jews.

It also affects Muslims who reject extremist ideology.

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The Difference Between Christianity and Radical Islam

The contrast is significant.

Jesus taught:

> “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44 NASB)

Jesus demonstrated this even while being crucified:

> “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34 NASB)

The apostles continued this teaching:

> “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21 NASB)

The Christian mission is not to conquer nations through force.

It is to proclaim the Gospel.

Jesus commanded:

> “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” (Mark 16:15 NASB)

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The Greatest Problem Is Not Political — It Is Spiritual

The Bible teaches that humanity’s greatest problem is not simply political systems or governments.

It is sin.

Every person, regardless of nationality, religion, or culture, needs forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

Paul wrote:

> “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23 NASB)

This includes Christians.

This includes Muslims.

This includes every human being.

The answer is not forcing people to change through power.

The answer is the transforming power of the Gospel.

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A Call to Muslims to Consider Christ

To any Muslim reading this:

The question is not whether you are sincere.

The question is:

Who is Jesus Christ?

If Jesus truly is the eternal Son of God, if He truly died for your sins, and if He truly rose from the dead, then He is worthy of your trust.

Jesus offers what no human effort can provide:

• Complete forgiveness.
• Peace with God.
• Eternal life.

The Bible declares:

> “For the wages of sin is death, but the gracious gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23 NASB)

Salvation is not earned.

It is received.

Not through works.

Not through religious performance.

But through faith in Jesus Christ alone.

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Conclusion

Radical Islam presents a vision of peace based on submission to Islamic authority.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ presents peace with God through the forgiveness of sins.

One seeks peace through submission to a system.

The other offers peace through reconciliation with God through His Son.

Jesus said:

> “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NASB)

The invitation of Christ remains open:

• Turn from sin.
• Trust in Jesus.
• Receive the free gift of eternal life.

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Next: Part 11 — The Gospel Invitation

A Final Appeal to Muslims and All People: Believe in the Jesus of the Bible and Receive Eternal Life

PART 11: The God of the Bible and Allah of the Qur’an

Why They Cannot Be the Same God

A Biblical Examination of Radical Islam, the Identity of Jesus Christ, and the Only Way of Salvation