How to Share the Gospel with Muslim Friends or Family: A Guide to Respectful Conversations About Jesus

Sharing the gospel with Muslim friends or family members requires sensitivity, respect, and a deep understanding of both Christian and Islamic beliefs. Islam and Christianity share some common ground, such as belief in one God, respect for prophets, and the importance of faith and devotion. However, there are significant differences in how each faith understands Jesus, salvation, and the nature of God. This guide will help you approach these conversations with love and wisdom, focusing on Jesus as the Word of God, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the Savior of the world.

### **1. Building on Common Ground**

Before diving into theological differences, it’s important to acknowledge the common ground between Islam and Christianity. Both faiths believe in one God (monotheism), respect the prophets, and emphasize the importance of faith, prayer, and moral living. Muslims believe that Jesus (Isa) was a prophet, born of the Virgin Mary, and performed miracles. However, they do not believe in His divinity or that He is the Son of God.

Start by affirming the common values and beliefs you share, which can create a foundation of mutual respect and understanding. For example, you can acknowledge the importance of prayer and devotion to God, which is central to both faiths.

- **Bible Verse**: Mark 12:29-31 – "The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."

### **2. Presenting Jesus as the Word of God**

In both Islam and Christianity, Jesus is recognized as a significant figure, but the understanding of who He is differs greatly. While Muslims believe that Jesus was a prophet and a messenger of God, Christians believe that Jesus is more than a prophet—He is the Word of God made flesh.

- **Bible Verse**: John 1:1, 14 – "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."

You can share that Christians believe Jesus is the eternal Word of God, who existed before all things and through whom all things were made. Explain that Jesus’ role as the Word means that He reveals God’s nature and brings God’s message of salvation to humanity. This concept of Jesus as the Word may resonate with Muslims, who also revere the Word of God as revealed in the Quran.

### **3. Focusing on Jesus as the Fulfillment of Prophecy**

Another way to introduce Jesus to your Muslim friends or family is by showing how He fulfills the prophecies of both the Old Testament and the New Testament. In Islam, there is respect for the prophets of the Old Testament, such as Moses and Abraham, who pointed to God’s future plans for humanity.

- **Bible Verse**: Isaiah 53:5 – "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed."

Explain that Jesus fulfills the prophecies of a coming Messiah who would suffer for the sins of the world, as described in Isaiah 53. This prophetic fulfillment is central to understanding Jesus’ role as Savior, and it sets Him apart as more than just a prophet—He is the promised Redeemer who brings salvation to the world.

- **Bible Verse**: Luke 24:44 – "He said to them, 'This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.'"

### **4. Emphasizing Jesus’ Divinity and Role as Savior**

One of the key differences between Islam and Christianity is the belief in Jesus’ divinity. Muslims believe that Jesus was a great prophet but not divine, while Christians believe that Jesus is the Son of God, fully divine and fully human. When sharing the gospel, it’s important to emphasize that Jesus is not just a messenger but God Himself, who came to save humanity from sin and death.

- **Bible Verse**: John 14:6 – "Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'"

Explain that Jesus claimed to be the way to God, not just one of many ways. His death on the cross and resurrection were the ultimate acts of love and sacrifice, making Him the Savior of the world. Christians believe that through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are reconciled to God and receive the gift of eternal life.

- **Bible Verse**: Acts 4:12 – "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved."

### **5. Respectfully Addressing Differences**

When discussing the gospel with Muslims, it’s important to approach the conversation with humility and respect. Acknowledge that there are significant differences between Islam and Christianity, but emphasize that your goal is to share the hope and truth that you have found in Jesus.

It’s also helpful to listen to their beliefs and ask questions. Understand their perspective and show respect for their faith journey. This mutual respect can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations about faith.

### **6. Inviting Them to Explore the Gospels**

One way to encourage deeper conversations is by inviting your Muslim friends or family members to read the Gospels with you. Many Muslims are familiar with Jesus’ life and teachings, but they may not have explored the New Testament in depth.

Offer to read through the Gospels together, focusing on the teachings of Jesus and how they reveal His identity as the Son of God and the Savior. Encourage them to ask questions and explore what Jesus says about Himself.

- **Bible Verse**: Matthew 11:28 – "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

### **Conclusion: Sharing the Gospel with Love and Respect**

Sharing the gospel with Muslim friends or family members is a delicate and important task. It requires patience, understanding, and a deep commitment to sharing the love of Jesus in a way that is respectful and thoughtful. By building on common ground, presenting Jesus as the Word of God, and emphasizing His role as the Savior, you can introduce the gospel in a way that resonates with their beliefs and invites them to explore the truth of who Jesus is.

Remember, the Holy Spirit is at work in these conversations. Trust that God is guiding your words and working in the hearts of those you share with. As you engage in these discussions, let your love for Jesus and your love for your Muslim friends or family members shine through.