The Days of Ramadan Day 2: God and the Trinity in Islam and Christianity
Today we look at the cardinal doctrine that divides Muslims from Christians
The doctrine of the Trinity is a cornerstone of Christian belief, but it is an area of profound difference between Islam and Christianity. While it would appear there are irreconcilable differences between Muslims and Christians, there is common ground in the Old Testament that can effectively be used to share the faith with Muslims.
Key Points:
1. God (Allah) in Islam: Muslims believe in a singular, indivisible God (Allah). The Islamic conception of God is strictly monotheistic, rejecting any division of God’s nature. Allah is not seen as a Father, and there is no personal relationship with God in the same way Christianity teaches through Jesus Christ.
Monotheism and the Nature of God
Islam: Islam believes in the oneness of God (Allah). Allah is a singular, indivisible entity and is unique, with no partners, associates, or children. The belief in God's absolute oneness is central to Islam, emphasized in the Shahada (the declaration of faith): "There is no god but Allah."
Christianity: Christianity also believes in one God, but this belief is expressed through the doctrine of the Trinity. Christians believe in one God who exists in three persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. This concept of God as both one and three simultaneously is a significant difference.
2.Protestant Christians believe in one God in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. The doctrine of the Trinity is central to understanding Christianity, as it describes God’s nature and relationship within Himself and with humanity.
Islam rejects the idea of the Trinity, considering it a form of polytheism. The Quran explicitly refutes the divinity of Jesus and the concept of God having a son, as seen in verses such as Surah 4:171 ("Say not 'Three'"). God is seen as entirely transcendent and beyond any division.
Conclusion
Christians might find it difficult to reconcile the Islamic rejection of the Trinity with their own belief in the triune God. Islam’s understanding of God is more abstract and impersonal compared to Christianity’s relational view of God through Jesus Christ. A doorway to Evangelism in the Old Testament exists that shows God as personal and in relationship with His people. Moses and Abraham both demonstration the relationship of God to mankind. Moses and Abraham are both prophets who are revered in the Muslim faith tradition. Later this week I’ll devote time to explicitly showing you how you can use the Old Testament to evangelize Muslims.
