Islam, one of the world’s largest religions, traces its origins to the 7th century and claims continuity with the monotheistic faiths of Judaism and Christianity. However, Islam diverges significantly from biblical Christianity in its beliefs about God, Jesus, salvation, and the nature of humanity. This essay explores the history and doctrines of Islam, contrasts its teachings with biblical Christianity, and concludes that Islam is a false religion incompatible with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Words: 1351 / Time to read: 7 minutes
The Origins of Islam
Islam was founded in the 7th century by Muhammad, a merchant from Mecca in present-day Saudi Arabia. According to Islamic tradition, Muhammad received revelations from the angel Jibreel (Gabriel) over 23 years. These revelations were later compiled into the Qur’an, which Muslims regard as the final and complete word of God.
Islam rapidly expanded through conquest and trade, uniting the Arabian Peninsula and spreading into North Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. Today, Islam has over 1.9 billion adherents worldwide, making it the second-largest religion after Christianity. Its influence is profound, with a strong emphasis on submission to Allah (the Arabic word for God), adherence to religious laws, and a communal identity.
Key Doctrinal Differences Between Islam and Christianity
- The Nature of God
- Islamic Belief: Islam teaches strict monotheism (tawhid), rejecting the Christian doctrine of the Trinity. Allah is viewed as a singular, transcendent being who is entirely separate from creation.
- Christianity: The Bible reveals that God is one in essence and three in persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Trinity is foundational to understanding God’s nature and His redemptive work. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)
- Jesus Christ
- Islamic Belief: Jesus (Isa) is regarded as a prophet, second only to Muhammad, but not as the Son of God. Muslims deny Jesus’ divinity, crucifixion, and resurrection, claiming He was taken up to heaven without dying.
- Christianity: Jesus is fully God and fully man, the eternal Son of God who died for the sins of the world and rose again. “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.” (John 1:1, 14) “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” (1 Peter 3:18)
- Salvation
- Islamic Belief: Salvation in Islam is based on works. Muslims must follow the Five Pillars—faith (shahada), prayer (salah), fasting (sawm), almsgiving (zakat), and pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj)—and hope that their good deeds outweigh their bad.
- Christianity: Salvation is a gift of grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
- The Bible and the Qur’an
- Islamic Belief: The Qur’an is considered the final and perfect revelation of God, superseding the Bible, which Muslims believe has been corrupted.
- Christianity: The Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God, fully trustworthy and sufficient for teaching and salvation. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Jesus affirmed the reliability of Scripture: “Your word is truth.” (John 17:17)
- Sin and Human Nature
- Islamic Belief: Islam teaches that humans are born morally neutral and can choose to obey or disobey Allah. There is no concept of original sin.
- Christianity: The Bible teaches that all humans inherit a sinful nature from Adam and are in need of redemption. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
- Heaven and Hell
- Islamic Belief: Heaven (Jannah) is attained through good works and Allah’s mercy, while hell (Jahannam) is reserved for unbelievers and evildoers.
- Christianity: Heaven is the eternal dwelling place of those redeemed by Christ, and hell is the place of eternal separation from God for those who reject Him. “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” (Matthew 25:46)
- The Role of Muhammad
- Islamic Belief: Muhammad is the final prophet, the “Seal of the Prophets,” whose teachings must be followed for salvation.
- Christianity: Jesus is the final and ultimate revelation of God. “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son.” (Hebrews 1:1-2)
Practices and Control Tactics in Islam
Islam incorporates strict practices and social structures that govern nearly every aspect of life:
- Religious Laws: Sharia law, derived from the Qur’an and Hadith (sayings of Muhammad), dictates personal, social, and legal conduct. This includes dietary laws, dress codes, and punishments for disobedience.
- Daily Prayers: Muslims are required to pray five times a day facing Mecca. This rigorous schedule reinforces submission and communal identity.
- Fasting and Pilgrimage: Fasting during Ramadan and the pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj) are mandatory acts of worship. These rituals create a sense of spiritual discipline but also emphasize works-based salvation.
- Almsgiving: Zakat, or giving a fixed portion of income to the poor, is compulsory, often motivated by the hope of gaining Allah’s favor.
- Community Pressure: Islamic societies often enforce conformity through family and community expectations, making it difficult for individuals to question or leave the faith.
- Severe Penalties for Apostasy: Leaving Islam is considered a grave sin, punishable by ostracism or even death in some Islamic countries. This creates a culture of fear and control.
The Appeal of Islam
Islam’s appeal lies in its simplicity and structure. The Five Pillars provide a clear framework for religious practice, and the communal aspect of Islamic life fosters belonging and identity. In a chaotic world, Islam offers moral guidance and a sense of purpose. However, this comes at the cost of personal freedom and assurance of salvation, as Muslims are left uncertain about their standing before Allah.
Freedom in Christ
In contrast to the rigid works-based system of Islam, Christianity offers true freedom in Christ. Salvation is not earned but given freely through Jesus’ atoning sacrifice. “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
Christians are not bound by legalistic rituals but are led by the Holy Spirit. Worship is an act of love and gratitude, not obligation. “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24) The gospel assures believers of their eternal destiny, offering peace and rest. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Conclusion
Islam and Christianity differ fundamentally in their understanding of God, Jesus, salvation, and human nature. While Islam emphasizes submission, works, and legalism, Christianity proclaims grace, freedom, and a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. The Bible is clear that Jesus is the only way to the Father: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
By understanding the core differences between Islam and Christianity, believers can confidently reject the teachings of Islam and share the gospel with compassion and clarity. The message of Jesus offers what Islam cannot: assurance of salvation, freedom from works-based righteousness, and the joy of knowing God personally. Let us stand firm in the truth of God’s Word and proclaim the good news of grace to all nations.
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
