It is not every day you get to walk along the main road with the chief imam of the town’s most prestigious mosque, but that was my privilege. We had a great talk. Along with all the general things, we talked about similarities and differences between our respective faiths. I discovered he owned a Bible. At one point we got talking about how proper respect should be shown to the prophets. Muslims have to say “Peace be upon him” when they speak of Jesus. I told him I could never say that. “How can I wish peace on him? He is the one who promises peace to us. I would rather say “May his peace be upon us.” I took out my wallet and drew out a printed scripture text, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14v27. It is one of the texts I always have with me because this issue comes up.
Two weeks later he accepted my invitation to have lunch at the church café. For him it was unanticipated view of church and church people. Again we talked about lots of things. At one point we got on to the disobedience of the Prophet Jonah. The imam talked about all the prophets asking forgiveness. I pointed out that one never needed to, Jesus Christ who never sinned. He did not argue. Islam does not disagree.
We are building a friendship. We will see where God takes it. There are more opportunities in Lancashire than meet the eye. We want to see a team here living among the Muslims, making friends and learning how to be witnesses. Click here to find out more about The Extra Mile Network and how you might get involved.
Find out more about our Neighbours Worldwide ministry
The world is on our doorstep! In Britain and Ireland there is a thriving and growing population of people from areas of the world where the gospel is not easily heard. Although living here, most of these families still have no real knowledge of Christ or contact with the christian church. Neighbours Worldwide aims to serve these dear people in the UK and Ireland. Working alongside existing churches, Neighbours Worldwide teams teach English, lead Bible studies, visit families, give out Christian literature and do all they can to share the love of Christ in a relevant way.
We need you to get involved
If you want to build relationships with ethnic groups in your community email us.
