Many Muslims are deeply religious, yet they have an ache in their heart that can only truly be filled by Jesus.
Unfortunately, many Muslims have never heard the Gospel because many Christians do not know how to minister to them, or are too fearful to minister to them.
However, instead of being afraid, Christians should be confident that God can and does turn hearts to Him when we are willing to share who He is with others, even Muslims.
Here are 7 things Christians should know when ministering to those of Islamic faith.
1. Christians should know that it’s not necessary to read the Quran to minister to Muslims properly.
While it’s helpful to have foundational knowledge about Islam and understand a person’s spiritual perspective, the most powerful source of knowledge that a Christian needs to minister to a Muslim is the Bible.
Paul said: “Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”
The Bible’s inherent power will have a powerful effect on the Muslim heart and can refute any verses or arguments from the Quran.
2. It’s important that Christians emphasize that they do not follow the same God that Muslims follow.
Many Muslims believe that the God of Christianity and Islam are the same.
But when Muslims realize that they are two very different Gods, the scales often fall from their eyes as they begin to evaluate the character of the “god” of Islam compared to the God of Christianity.
3. Christians should follow the example of Jesus and meet people where they are. Caring for someone’s needs builds a bridge of trust.
Jesus provided for people’s needs. He healed the sick. He fed the hungry.
Addressing the everyday needs of people in the Muslim community reveals the glory and kindness of God.
4. Remember to keep Jesus at the center.
Muslims revere and honor Jesus, who they call “Isa,” but they do not know He is the son of God.
Christians should memorize scriptures where Jesus reveals Himself to be the Christ.
Muslims are usually very surprised by these scriptures and often want to know more.
5. Remember God’s grace.
The “god” of Islam is gracious only in name, but not in practice.
Allah does not atone for sins, nor do Muslims have any guarantee of salvation.
The beauty that shines brightly in Christianity is grace. God is gracious and merciful, not just in name, but also in practice.
6. Don’t be discouraged.
Christians who have witnessed to atheists and agnostics and watched them come to Christ might feel discouraged to not see the same eagerness or willingness when they tell Muslims about Jesus.
However, it’s important to remember that Muslims are usually very guarded about conversion for various reasons, such as the fear of violent backlash for leaving Islam. They may not accept the Gospel as eagerly as someone coming from a faithless background.
Stay encouraged by remembering that God’s Word does not return empty and will accomplish what He pleases.
Planting a seed in others’ hearts is what matters while you wait for the Holy Spirit to make the difference. Your labor is not in vain.
7. Don’t forget to pray.
Pray for Muslims just as you would pray for anyone who is lost.
Pray for opportunities to minister. Pray for wisdom and that the Holy Spirit will give you the right words.
When Christians pull people from the darkness, they often encounter spiritual warfare. A prayer life is a form of defense.
A prayer life will equip you with the spiritual, physical, and emotional tools you need to be able to stand in the gap and bring Muslims to Christ.
