Sincerely Loving Muslims

The EU election results show unsettling nationalist and populist parties gains, reflecting a growing animosity towards migrants, especially Muslims. Election campaign posters of the British Nationalist Party asked voters, 'What Would Jesus Do?' 

This is my summary of guidelines drawn up by a 'Global Network of Christians who love, serve, and live among Muslims'. 

We should not hide or diminish the essential truths of the Gospel. Relating to Muslims with respect, understanding and love includes bearing faithful witness to essential truths of the gospel. 

A Jesus-centered approach to Muslims does not confuse the good news with Christendom, patriotism or our civilization. Jesus is our model in all we say and do. 

Be accurate when we speak about Muslims and their faith, avoiding overstatement, exaggeration and words taken out of context. Live at peace with all people, recognising that speaking the truth, even graciously, will offend some. This means refusing to project onto all Muslims a violent agenda espoused by only a minority. 

God's Word calls us to share our faith wisely. "Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity" (Col 4:5). Wisdom in practice is "first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness" (James 3:17-18 NIV). 

Respectful witness focuses on giving a positive presentation of the gospel. It does not attack the other or avoid presenting truth. As the apostle Peter says: "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15 NIV).  

When we try to explain who we are, what we believe, what we do, and why we do it, our words may ricochet around the world. After saying something controversial, an outspoken leader may try to clarify his statement. But the damage is already done. Words are powerful. Prudence is required. "A man of knowledge uses words with restraint" (Prov 17:27). 

We affirm the right of religious freedom for every person and community; for Muslims among Christians and for Christians among Muslims. We stand against all forms of religious persecution toward Muslims, Christians, or anyone else. (2 Cor 4:2). 

Jesus' teaching about love of enemy (Luke 6:35) is among the most radical and most ignored commands in the Bible.  Peacemakers and those who love their enemies demonstrate their authenticity as children of God by their words and acts of peace. Jesus modeled this by loving us and laying down his life for us, "while we were enemies" (Rom 5:10; cf. Col 1:21). 

In Romans 12:9-13:10, Paul contrasts how God's people are to respond to evil with how the government should respond. Jesus' followers are called to a peacemaking ethic of sacrificial love. Jesus exhorts believers to bless our persecutors, respond non-violently to evil.  

We have been entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor 5:18, 19). An increasingly polarised Europe needs this ministry, from our local communities to the European Parliament.

Till next week,