After reading this article on “9 Ways to Counter Radical Islam,” I guess I’m still left mystified at how the “every day Joe” gets involved. Even if I were a government leader, I would still have trouble knowing what to do. Can anyone read this article, then, in the comments that follow the web version of this item, translate this article into practical everyday steps for me? What can I do to help a radicalized Muslim world?
http://www.zwemercenter.com/9-ways-to-counter-radical-islam/
Thanks in advance for any help.
Though all of the nine could not be the work of a single person, I believe that each one clearly gives “next steps”. For example, one into the world of media could find and broadcast testimonies of those “thousands” of new believers. One who is a business entrepreneur could get micro businesses going in impoverished Muslim countries. Educate yourself so you can talk intelligently with Muslims. Etc.
First of all, kudos to Shirin for challenging us to think about how to engage Muslims, promote peace, and provide help as we are able.
I agree with Neal that these are not steps we all need to take, but we all can prayerfully consider taking one of these steps.
Shirin suggests some practical things to focus on, which I appreciate. However, I’d like to take a step back and encourage us all to first focus on Jesus. How would he want the Church to respond to individual Muslims? In what ways would He want us to engage with Muslims, even those who seem radical? Ultimately we know that the solution is spiritual. Having lived in 3 different Muslim countries, this truth was impossible to avoid (and I could say the same about the shifts in America!). And as part of our focusing on Jesus, let’s ask ourselves, individually and corporately, “Change my heart, O God. See if there be any offensive way in me….”
Here are some other practical suggestions…
* Learn more about Muslims. Befriend one (or better yet, a family) and spend time with them. Invite them into your home. Accept their invitations to their home (I can all but guarantee will win for best hospitality).
* Read a book to better understand Muslims and how to lovingly engage them. There are way to many “Christian leaders” out there instilling fear & hatred. “Muslims, Christians and Jesus: Gaining Understanding and Building Relationships” is a good place to start (http://amzn.to/1S4SWti).
* Pray – seriously pray – regularly for Muslims, for peace, and the coming of God’s kingdom. If I could pass a law, it would be “No complaining about Muslims or Islam without at least praying daily right now during Ramadan.” Try http://calledtopray.net/ (a neat story-based prayer guide) or the annual http://pray30days.org/.
* Addressing radical Islam – Shirin is spot on. In many Muslim countries, people are easily radicalized because of deplorable economic conditions (often fueled by corrupt and possibly oppressive governments). Consider how the Church can be a part of helping them. Research has shown that Muslims who are being radicalized could just as easily be turned toward Jesus (Saul –> Paul anyone?!).
* Learn about & support groups doing innovative work among Muslims. I’m a fan of Frontiers (www.frontiers.org) and Peace Catalys Int’l (http://www.peace-catalyst.net/).
The beginning point is to befriend a Muslim. Not as a “target” only to evangelize but as a true friend even if he doesn’t come to faith. Within a friendship you can get to know a family and how and why people think they do within a culture. You are the “learner” within the friendship so listen patiently and don’t feel you need to correct so quickly. Again, you are primarily the learner and not the teacher until you know more how to relate within the group. Remember, you can sometimes lead a “friend” to Christ but seldom an enemy or someone who doesn’t trust you. Within a friendship he also has an opportunity to know a Christian so be careful how you walk!