ISLAM

Copied from: BANNER OF TRUTH Volume 10, #10, October 2001

THE FALSE RELIGION OF ISLAM

By: Walter W. Pigg

In a world of false religions, ISLAM is now emerging from a somewhat decadent state of past centuries to an active religious force of great dimension. Not only is Islam a force of evil against God and His will for man, it is a force of evil in the physical sense, as we have seen recently.

The term "Religion" is often used in a very broad sense. One definition by Webster is, "something a person believes in and follows devotedly." Though it is a common thing for people to think of "Religion" as it relates to God and His will as recorded in the Bible, it is often used to refer to a wide variety of beliefs which are not based upon the true God and His will. In the following discussion we shall consider Religion which is not based upon the true God and His will for man, as a False Religion. Of the many false religions, Islam is an important one.

True religion, as it pertains to God and the worship of Him in accordance with His will, goes all the way back to the family of Adam and Eve. Since that time, only the religion authorized by God has been acceptable to God. But history has recorded a multitude of FALSE religions. From the coming of Christ and the bringing into force the New Covenant, there has been only one True Religion, Christianity. There have been, as is he case today, many "so-called" Christian religions. They are False Religions. In fact, in today’s religious world only a minuscule part of it is the true God-approved religion of Christianity.

The New Testament is replete with warnings concerning false religions. Even our Lord said, "Beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep’s clothing..." (Ma. 7:15). To timothy Paul wrote, "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith..." (I Tim. 4:1). "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine;...and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and be turned unto fables" (2 Tim.. 4:3-4). Peter said, "But there were false prophets among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you" (2 Pet. 2:1). John said, "...but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world" (I Jno. 4:1). Jude speaks of "...ungodly men, turning the grace of God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ" (Jude 4). The above are only part of the warnings concerning false religion.

We are discussing The False Religion Of Islam because it is a rapidly growing false religion, and that growth is very pronounced here in our own country. Not only is it a False Religion, but it is a very militant one at that, as demonstrated by the evil and tragic acts of terrorism on September 11th, when several thousand innocent lives were taken, and property destroyed to the tune of billions of dollars. In addition, there is no way to measure the emotional and physical suffering brought on by that evil act. We are not the only country to suffer from Islamic terrorism. Others have as well.

It is not my intention to leave the impression that all Islamic adherents are as evil as those involved in the recent terrorist attacks. I’m sure they aren’t. But is a fact that from that false religion has come incomprehensible wickedness in the form of terrorism and the subjugating of millions of people, as has been so amply demonstrated in Afghanistan. That more than a few of the Muslims are radicals was evidenced by the multitudes who were so jubilant when they learned of the evil acts against our country by their fellow Muslims, on September 11th. Thousands were euphoric, as shown by their demonstrations, not only in Afghanistan but in other countries as well.

But an even greater wickedness than the terrorist activities, is that of the deluding of millions of souls by false teaching, which will result in the eternal destruction of their souls. While some Muslims do not engage in physical evil acts against others, no Muslim is a "good person" by God’s standards. No one who follows a false religion is good in God’s sight, since such people are denying God and His will for man. All false religions are in opposition to God and our Savior who died to make men free, through obedience to their will.

In our discussion of The False Religion of Islam we shall give some attention to its beginning and some happenings over the centuries. But our main concern is what Islam is today and what influence it can have upon us, and upon the church. It is much more important to understand what Islam is now than what it was centuries ago. The continued advance of liberalism within the denominational world makes Islam an even greater threat. Since a great many of our own brethren are drifting farther and farther into denominationalism, the chances are greater that some of them will come to have an affinity for Islam as they have for other false religions. As threats to the Lord and His church increase, our responsibility to "stand fast in the faith" is even more urgent.

THE BEGINNING OF ISLAM

The information as to the time, place, and persons involved in the beginning of Islam, seems to be quite uniform. Most encyclopedias provide that information. Therefore, we will not give much attention to the beginning of this false religion. One thing it has in common with many other false religions is the claim of inspired revelation other than the Bible.

The story of Islam begins in the central part of the Arabian peninsula in 570 A.D. at a place called Mecca, where Mohammed was born. His father was Abdulla and his mother was Aminah. Abdulla died before Mohammed’s birth and Mohammed’s mother died when he was six years old. He was raised by an uncle and his grandfather, who was said to be a high priest in a pagan religion.

The religion of Arabia was dominated by the Semitic influence, which included a wide variety of idolatry. Although the religion was overwhelmingly pagan, there were some Jews and "Christians" in Arabia. Even among the pagans there was an idea emerging of one god, the creator of all things, Allah. In Mecca was a sanctuary called the Kaaba. The Arabian tribes visited the Kaaba, a cubical building which was known as "House of Allah." Though it was the House of Allah, it contained 360 idols. It also contained a black stone which had supposedly been brought down from heaven. Muslims now believe the original Kabba was built by Abraham and the black stone placed there by him. Of course the Bible knows nothing of such a story. When Mohammed declared himself a prophet of Allah, things were somewhat favorable to the acceptance of Allah and Mohammed as his prophet.

Mohammed was a person of little education. He was given to moods and restlessness, spending much time in meditation. When he was about 25 he married a wealthy widow, some fifteen years older than himself. After her death he had several wives, one reportedly only seven years old.

When Mohammed was around 40 years old he claimed that the angel Gabriel appeared to him in a cave when he was meditating, and told him that he was God’s messenger. Some say that he was not "at himself" when he supposedly received the revelations. From this point onward for about 22 years, Mohammed claimed to receive revelations from God (Allah). These supposed revelations make up what is called the Qur’an, or Koran as it is often written. This is the Muslim’s "Holy Book."

In his first few years as a so-called prophet, Mohammed had little success. In fact, he met with some stiff opposition. When he made plans to destroy the 360 idols of the Kaaba his opposition was so intense that he had to flee to Medina. This flight to Medina in 622 A.D. was of such importance that it became known as the beginning of Islam, the "Hijra." The Islam calendar begins at this date, using A. H. as a designation of the years from the flight to Medina. Muhammad’s death in 632 is known to Muslims as 10 A.H.

At Medina, Mohammad had great success and converted the most of the city. He reportedly had all those who would not convert to his teaching murdered. In 630 A.D., he gathered an army of several thousand and set out to take Mecca. Most of the city agreed to accept his teaching, thereby preventing warfare. One source says that Mohammad claimed he had been commissioned to steal from the caravans which passed through the country. The Koran reportedly records 66 battles by the Muslims, whereby many thousands were murdered. This shows from early on that the Muslims have been known for their murders and evil deeds against those who are not Muslims. As we go back and review the history of Islam, there is good reason to be concerned with what the Muslims are thinking and planning, to say nothing of the evidence which has been brought to bear so heavily in recent times. All Muslims are not alike, but how does one know what the individual Muslim is like?

"THE GLORIOUS KORAN"

As stated earlier, the supposed revelations received by Mohammed over a period of 22 years make up the Koran. The Koran, which means "The Reading," is supposed to be a revelation "direct from God." But as is the case with virtually all false religions, their supposed revelations from God are lacking in proof of their authenticity. The Koran is supposed to be the final authority from God, so Muslims claim, but this is not according to fact. I have a copy of The Meaning Of The Glorious Quran, Text & Explanatory Translation by Marmaduke Pickthall. This volume, printed by TaJ Company Ltd., in Karachi, Pakistan, is considered to be the a most reliable translation of the Koran.

In addition to the Koran, the Muslims have an additional authority to suit their desires. This source of authority is known as The Sunnah or the Hadith. This has reference to the "tradition" of the prophet or what others heard him say, and the opinions of certain theologians of the second century. When the Muslims looked for a tradition to suit their desires and needs and couldn’t find one, they simply made up one to suit them, or what they wanted. This same principle is seen today in religion. This is especially true of the Catholic Church. They contend that tradition is as authoritative as is God’s word. By "tradition" just about anything can be justified. It is clear that Muslims of today make great use of the Sunna to justify many things which are not taught in the Koran, though it teaches much error and advocates a great deal of evil which is contrary to God’s will. Later we will give some examples of teaching of the Koran and the Sunna which are in conflict with the clear teaching of the Bible.

SOME MUSLIM TERMS

Koran, some times Qur’an. As noted before the word means "The Reading," referring to the revelations supposedly received by Muhammad. The book, about the size of the New Testament, is divided into 114 chapters or suras. It is accepted by Muslims as a direct revelation from God to Muhammad, by the angel Gabriel. It is revered as the foundation of Islamic law, religion, culture, and politics. As noted above, it is not the only source of authority accepted by Muslims. It could be said of all false religions, that they receive something as authority other than the complete revelation of God.

Islam. This term was used by Muhammad to describe the religion he founded. The term is an Arabic word which means ‘acceptance’, ‘surrender’, ‘submission’, or ‘commitment.’ The term is used to denote man’s supposed proper relationship to God (Allah).

Muhammadanism. This term is used to designate the faith of Muslims. It is derived from the fact that Muhammad or Mohammed, claims to be a prophet of God. Muslims do not like to be called Muhammadians.

Mosque. This is a Muslim temple or place of public worship. Some of these are very large and greatly embellished in various ways. I had the opportunity to be in the Blue Mosque in Instanbul, and it was an elaborate place dedicated to the leading of people into soul-destroying error.

Ali (Ali ibn Abi). Muhammad’s first cousin and adopted son. Husband of Fatima.

Allah. The one god of the Muslims, and claimed to be the one true God, Jehovah. Muslims do not believe in the trinity.

Minaret. The tall steeple which is a part of every mosque. The Muezzin is the crier whose voice is heard over the speakers from the minaret.

Ka’ba. The square building in the great Mosque in Mecca. Pilgrims to Mecca are to march around this building seven times and kiss the sacred black stone, which some believe to be a meteor.

Ramadan. The anniversary of the first month of the Muslim calendar year which was established in 622 A.D. Muslims are to fast from food, drink and sex during daylight hours of that month.

Jihad. This term means "holy war." It is said that Muhammad led a group of men in an attack on a caravan of traders to take their possessions, and the battle at first went against the Muslims. When Muhammad told his troops that it was not they, but God, who killed, the battle went in their favor. One source said that the sword became the motivating force that spread Islam throughout the Arabian peninsula and into Africa and Asia.

EARLY AND LATER SPREAD OF ISLAM

It was no less than amazing at the rapidity at which the new religion of Islam conquered by military might the nations near Arabia and then more distant ones. The first Muslim expeditions into Palestine and Syria, primarily for plunder, did extend Islam. In 633 virtually all of Palestine and Syria came under Muslim control. All of Iraq was under Muslim control in 637. Egypt was invaded in 639 and within two years all the country except Alexandria had fallen. It, too, was soon to fall. In 641 the Iranian plateau and adjoining areas fell to Islam. The Muslim military power then went westward across North Africa and into Spain in 7ll A.D. The Muslim advance into Europe was stopped by the French king, Charles Martel in 732 A. D. A most amazing thing about the above conquest is that those countries, other than Spain and Sicily, are still under Islamic control.

Early in the eleventh century some conquests were made into India, but it would be the middle of the twelfth century before northern India would come under Muslim control. Conquests in Indonesia were more peaceful, through trade, teaching and intermarriages. Today Indonesia has the largest Muslim population of any country, about 165 million. The Turks took Constantinople in 1453, and then made forays into the Balkan states. Eastern Europe prevented the Turks from gaining control of those states. Therefore, the Muslim population is not as great as in many other places.

The growth of Islam, especially in the African countries, has been at the expense of the so-called Christians. The greatest number of conversions to Islam in those countries has been among the black population, a subject we shall discuss later.

THE WANING OF ISLAM

In the 1700s and the 1800s, Islam saw a real decline, a real setback. The growth which was so characteristic early on and for several centuries thereafter was no longer a reality. The religion had lost its vitality. Reasons are given for this decline. First, the three great Muslim powers of the seventeenth century: Ottoman in Turkey, the Mogul in India, and the Persian in Iran, had fallen under the influence of Europe by 1850. There were several positive things which influenced the European influence. The result of the Renaissance brought strength. The New World had been discovered. The Industrial Revolution enabled the Europeans to make great advances and extend their political influence in those three areas mentioned above. Therefore, the European influence somewhat overshadowed the influence of Islam which had been so strong for so long. In fact, in Egypt and North Africa the British and French gained control of sizable territories. The British established themselves in southern Arabia and the Persian Gulf. the Dutch were in control of Indonesia. The British were also in control of Singapore and Malaysia. This put Islam at a great disadvantage, which would last for quite some time, that is until the domination and influence of the European countries ceased.

THE RESURGENCE OF ISLAM

Some efforts to revive Islam were being put forth as early as the late 1700s. The nineteenth century would see greater efforts devoted to this accomplishment. More serious efforts were put forth to throw off outside domination and enjoy independence. The twentieth century would see an increase of opposition to British rule in India.

Between World War I and World War II, pressure for independence from foreign domination grew as never before, among Muslims. With the Arabs a spirit of nationalism had been growing for quite some time.

After World War II, a powerful spirit of revival became a reality in Islam. A number of countries gained their independence from the British and others. The independent states now had the opportunity to contribute to the resurgence of Islam in a powerful way through political control and other means. They took advantage of that opportunity. Some have called this a renaissance of Islam. The present growth of Islam far outstrips anything seen by anyone living today.

Efforts to expand Islam for a few decades after World War II, took on a somewhat new form. Whereas in many centuries past the expansion of Islam was by the sword, there was less emphasis on this in the above period. Efforts were made to make progress through education, political influence, and evangelism. Efforts were more peaceful than before.

However, in the past decade or so, the old means of making gains by force are being seen. The acts of terrorism have increased dramatically, the September 11th episode being the greatest terrorist attack ever brought upon our country. This danger is so great that it has called for "A Global War On Terrorism." For several weeks now we have seen the beginning of that war in Afghanistan. The evil and radical Taliban, and those who support it, both in Ahghanistan and other countries, is the strongest of evidence that Islam is at least in part resorting to its old ways. A great matter of concern! The way of life for Americans will, or has changed. Americans would do well to educate themselves with regard to Islam. Because some Muslims are not as radical as others, doesn’t mean that there is no danger in the Islamic religion.

TWO MAIN DIVISIONS OF ISLAM

There are many sects within Islam, but there are two which make up most of Islam. It is to these two divisions that we are giving some attention.

The Sunni. This group makes up 85 to 90 percent of Islam. The Sunni accepts the Koran and the Sunna, "Tradition of the prophets," as their guide. Most of the Islamic nations are controlled by these Muslims. They are generally more peaceful than the Shiites, but they are still a false religion.

The Shiites. About 10 or 15 percent of Muslims are Shiites. They consider themselves to be "The true believers," and accept the Koran as their complete guide. They do not accept the "Saying of the Prophet" as authentic. These are the more radical of the Muslims, and are dominant in Iran.

With all the variant beliefs of Islam, just about any action, regardless of how evil it may be, can be justified by some. If most of the Muslims are peaceful, as some claim, why don’t they expel from their ranks and isolate those who are so radical and so evil? This is a serious question.

THE PILLARS OF ISLAM

There are five things, called "Pillars," which every Muslim is supposed to do. They are:

1. Recite the following statement: "There is no god but Allah, and Mohammed is his prophet."

2. Pray five times each day, facing Mecca.

3. All Muslims are to give alms to help their needy fellow Muslims.

4. In the month of Ramadan the Muslim must fast, abstaining from food, drink and sex during the daylight hours of each day.

5. If physically and financially able, a Muslim is to make a pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime.

To the above "pillars" some have added another, a sixth. It is known as "Jihad," or "The Holy War." This is in no sense of the term a "Holy War," since it is used for the expansion and defense of Islam. In recent times we have heard much about Holy War. A prime example is that of Bin Laden and his evil cohorts in Afghanistan. Many Muslims have declared a ":Holy War" against America. A powerful strike in behalf of that evil objective was the murder of thousands of innocent Americans, the destruction of property to the tune of billions of dollars, and the bringing of untold physical and mental suffering. This "strike" of "Holy War" occurred on September 11th.

FIVE ARTICLES OF FAITH

The five articles of faith, very briefly stated, are as follow: (1) Belief in only one true God. (2) Belief in angels, that each person has two. (3) There are four inspired books accepted by Muslims: The Koran (the greatest) (4) God has spoken through many prophets: Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, with Muhammad the last and greatest. (5) There will be a resurrection and a judgment of the good and evil. Some add a 6th article of faith, that is belief in predestination, that all things are controlled by Allah, not by man.

One of the great inconsistencies of these Five Articles of Faith is that of the supposed acceptance of Jesus, with Muhammad being greater than Jesus. In Islam there are so many things which are in direct opposition to the teachings of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Others claim to believe in Christ but they relegate Him to a place which is far beneath His position as God’s Son. The JW’s claim to believe in Jesus but they make Him a little god in John 1:1, by calling Him "a god."

In our coming discussion we are going to give attention to Islam and its influence upon society in general and upon our own society in particular. The history of Islam in the past, even from its beginning, is worthwhile, but it is not due the concern of present day Islam. As Christians we should be especially concerned, but those who aren’t Christians have a right to be concerned. We need to bear in mind that to the Muslim all people who are not Muslims are "unbelievers," or "infidels." It has been the objective of many Muslims to rid the world of unbelievers and infidels by violence and that includes us. It is not unreasonable to believe that the objective of the resurgence of Islam is the conquest of the world, to bring it all under Muslim control.

PRESENT DAY ISLAM WORLDWIDE

The extent of Islam worldwide has increased to the point that it is a major religion, second only to so-called Christianity. Whereas a couple of centuries ago a sizable presence of Islam was found primarily in the Middle East, today most countries of the world have more than "just a few" Muslims, and their numbers are increasing at a rapid pace.

Microsoft Encarta Online Encyclopedia 2001, has an article by Ahamad S. Dallal, associate professor of Islam Studies at Yale University, which is very informative. It says there are a billion Muslims in 40 predominately Muslim countries in five continents. Their numbers are said to be growing at a rate unmatched by any other religion in the world. In spite of the wide diversity of Islam, a core of beliefs is said to provide a basis for identity and affinity among Muslims. The modern expression of Islam is as diverse as the countries in which Muslims live, the article said.

The AP carried an article by The Washington Times, published 11/17/2001, entitled "Faith, politics collide at start of Ramadan." This article gives some examples of present day thinking of Muslims. We shall note a few brief examples.

In Saudi, Arabia, Sheik Mohammed Tawwash asked God to protect innocent Muslims and give them victory over the infidels and enemies of Islam. In Jordan, Abdul-Wahah Kassabeh asked God to wreak vengeance on: Americans, Jews, their allies and whosoever stands behind them. He prayed to God to disperse them and give a great victory to the holy warriors in Palestine, Afghanistan and Chechnya.

In Lebanon, a senior Shiite Muslim Cleric told worshippers that the U.S. was trying to crush the Taliban in order to establish a strategic base in Central Asia. Away from the pulpit there was no shortage of statements in favor of bin Laden and the al Qaeda terrorist. In Kohbar, in Arabia, Ahmed (first name not given), 25, said the Americans are digging their own graves and, God willing, the holy warriors in Afghanistan would bury them soon.

On a different note from Muslims, Mr. Sadiq said, in the northern town of Taloquan in Afghanistan, the Northern Alliance would bring good government, granting the rights of women, and the rights of educated people to bring a real Islam. These Muslims are also of a false religion.

ISLAM IN OUR AMERICA

In our day of such fantastic communication we learn of matters of concern virtually as they happen. It is good to know what is going own in our shrinking world; we are often affected by the same. But when things happen here at home, In Our America, it is somewhat different. I can’t think of a better example of this than the terrorist attacks which we have already mentioned a number of times. Since this terrible act was perpetrated and carried out by Muslims, we have the more reason to be concerned about Islam In Our America.

We have seen by the horrendous acts of terrorism on September 11th what Islam can do, and was willing to do, to America. Were all the Muslims in America involved in this evil act? Of course not. It is a matter of fact, however, that some had a part. It is not known, and may never be, just how many Muslims were involved. This makes the matter even more serious because it is impossible to ferret out all of those who are our enemies.

We are currently hearing a lot about "profiling." To give special attention to Muslims would be opposed by some as "religious profiling." But if people of any particular group are much more likely to be our enemies, then common sense tells us to give more attention and scrutiny to that group.

From what we are now hearing, we as a country have been woefully remiss by allowing thousands of Muslims into our country and then not keeping track of them, as we should of others who pose a danger. Thousands of Muslims have entered this country on student visas, yet many of them have never entered a school. This should have made them suspect in the first place. Yet, we have not kept up with their whereabouts and their actions!

Some may ask, "What does this have to do with those of us who are Christians, and why give so much space in Banner of Truth?" This is a very easy question to answer, and we shall do so. Islam in our country has much to do with us from a religious standpoint, to say nothing of the physical danger that is poses. You see, Muslims, according to their teaching, are supposed to be the enemies of Christians. To them we are "unbelievers" or "infidels." They are supposed to oppose us and if they don’t they are not true to their religion. If Muslims had control of our country, and this could happen as it has happened in many countries, Christianity would be strongly opposed, making the practice of it extremely difficult. What, you may ask, is the basis of my conclusion? My response — Just look at the countries which are now under Islamic control! Under Islamic control, freedom of religion often ceases to exist! Talk to our brethren who have been involved in missionary efforts in predominately Muslim countries.

Please let it be understood that I am not in any way opposed to teaching and trying to convert Muslims. They stand in need of salvation as do the adherents of other false religions. More than thirty years ago I had an opportunity to speak to the Lord’s church in Jerusalem. It was made up primarily of Arabs, who were converted. The Great Commission is to "go into all the world." But at the same time, we are making a huge mistake if we fail to see the serious threat against Christianity which is posed by Islam in general, especially radicals.

As we continue our discussion of Islam in our country we shall give some attention to its early beginnings and its rapid spread in the past century, especially in the last half of that century.

THE RISE OF ISLAM IN AMERICA

Some sources say that there are now in America some five million Muslims, though an accurate count is almost impossible. They have very active programs to proselyte additional members. One estimation is that Muslims are increasing by as much as 135,000 each year. At that rate, it will not take many years before there is a very sizable number, which can begin to exert more influence. A Muslim, Louis Farrakhan, is the leading spokesman for Black Muslims at present. We all remember the "Million Man March," of a few years ago, with Farrakhan as the leader. Few may have realized the significance of this event as it relates to the propagation of Islam. A great percentage of the converts to Islam are from the black population.

If I remember correctly, there are said to be about 600 Muslim mosques or temples in the U.S. I heard a report from one who has done an extensive study of Islam in the U.S. This man had video clips from Muslim services where there were very militant attitudes toward non-Muslims being advocated. This is understandable due to the basic teachings of the Muslims, and actions in the past.

One cannot do justice to the rise of Islam in the U.S. without considering a movement which took place within the black population, beginning in a very forceful way about the middle of the past century. We shall discuss that movement under the heading of:

THE BLACK MUSLIMS

William H. Banks, Jr. is the author of a book, The Black Muslims, copyrighted 1997. To this volume I am indebted for much of the following information about The Black Muslims.

The Black Muslim movement was also known as "The Nation of Islam." The extent of the growth of this movement was evidenced on October 16, 1995, when thousands and thousands of black people from all over the U. S., arriving by virtually every means of transportation, met in Washington, DC, in behalf of the "Million Man March," led by Muslim, Louis Farrakhan. The program began in front of the Capitol steps. Some fifty or more African-Americans of some note, including Jesse Jackson, spoke. Later in the day, Louis Farrakhan spoke for more than two hours.

Farrakhan urged the people to be more like Jesus, Muhammad, and Moses. Though the "Million Man March" was supposed to encourage positive activities among the black population, the urging of people to be like Muhammad, shows the strong Muslim emphasis. Farrakhan also asked that women not attend the rally. This is in keeping with the superiority of men over women by Islam.

As the head of the Nation of Islam, Farrakhan had spoken out against the wickedness of the whites. He had also delivered attacks against Jews. The Nation of Islam, of which Farrakhan is now the leader, contended that blacks were the "Original Men" and destined to rule the earth.

NATION OF ISLAM, EARLY BACKGROUND

Due to lack of space we can only touch upon the high points of this movement. This early background involves a time when many of the black people from the south had gone or were going to the industrial north, with the hopes of finding a better way of life. Under the guise of good intentions, some leaders led thousands to accept a form of Islam. This accounts for many of the Muslims in the U. S., and especially among the black population.

An advocate of racial separatism, Marcus Garvey, founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA). By 1919, a claim of two million members was made. Garvey traveled extensively through the U. S. and Canada. Garvey published a paper, Negro World, which reached a circulation of 60,000. Garvey opposed integration and favored separatism. The UNIA failed, and in 1922, Garvey joined hands with the KKK. The next year Garvey was imprisoned for mail fraud.

About this same time another leader, Noble Drew, established the Moorish Temple of America. In a visit to Morocco, the king supposedly told Drew to teach Islam to African Americans. Drew, who also claimed that blacks were superior to whites, founded his first temple in 1915, in Newark, New Jersey. Drew issued national ID cards to his followers, which declared the holder believed in Divine prophets: Jesus, Muhammad, Buddha, and Confucius. Many of Drew’s followers were former followers of Garvey.

In the beginning of the 1930’s depression, Wallace Fard led a movement in Detroit, called the Lost-Found Nation of Islam. Fard claimed to be a prophet from Arabia to help black Americans find their dual African and Islamic heritage’s. Fard said the white man was the devil himself and the embodiment of evil.

A devout follower of Fard was Elijah Poole, who had moved to Detroit in 1923. Through the influence of Abdul Mohammed, a former member of the Moorish Temple, Poole was converted to the Nation of Islam in 1930. Pool would in time become the leader of the Nation of Islam. The extent of Pool’s devotion to Fard is shown in a statement that he recognized him to be "God in person." Fard would accept the role of Allah, declaring himself the Jesus. Poole’s name would be changed to the Islamic name of Elijah Muhammed. He would later produce a "guidebook" for the Nation of Islam which Black Muslims are said to follow to this day. He established Temple Number One in Detroit and Temple Number Two in Chicago.

Around 1934, Fard mysteriously disappeared. It was then that Elijah Muhammad assumed much power, but there was some suspicion aroused. He condemned Christianity as the white man’s religion and supported Islam.

In 1941, with the coming of World War II, a hundred Black Muslims, including Muhammad, were arrested by the FBI for failure to register for the draft. Muhammad was imprisoned along with others. Released from prison in 1946, Muhammad renewed his influence among Black Muslims. He started a number of enterprises, and encouraged black businesses. Muhammad would maintain control of the Nation of Islam until his death in 1975, a follower of his, Mark Little, would take the spotlight from 1952 and onward for a number of years.

Malcolm Little. Malcolm started out early in disrespect for authority. He had been in trouble with the law more than once when he was eleven years old. He was sent to a juvenile detention facility when he was 13. He was sent to prison when he was 20 for bank robbery. Influenced by one of his brothers, Malcolm became interested in the Nation of Islam. When he was released from prison in 1952 he became involved in the operation of Nation’s Temple Number One in Detroit. By now he had changed his name to Malcolm X. Within his first few months with Temple One the membership had tripled, and he became the assistant minister. By the end of the 1950s, 50 temples were in operation.

With an increased audience, now Malcolm X increases his verbal attacks against "the white devil," the white man But when journalist Mike Wallace narrated a television program entitled, "The Hate that Hate Produced," many eyes were opened to the reality of the hatred of whites by the Black Muslims and their supporters. The bitter and harsh words of Malcolm X created fear and distrust. At this time Martin Luther King, Jr. was fighting for the rights of blacks by integration, but Malcolm X would have no part in a goal of integration. He had only dislike for the whites and the blacks who favored integration. He favored a separate state for blacks, a country of their own. Malcolm called on blacks to fight for their rights, and if necessary use "bullet for bullet." He attacked African-American clergymen, and Christianity as tools of the white man. This proved a great setback for the Nation of Islam.

With Muhammad’s health failing, Malcolm X was appointed national minister of the movement and became the official spokesman for the Nation of Islam. Though Muhammad was officially in control, he was out of the spotlight, and moved to Arizona. With the absence of Muhammad in the Chicago office, trouble soon developed between Malcolm X and others of note.

Malcolm X began to realize that his methods were not accomplishing his objectives, while those fighting for civil rights and integration had accomplished some worthwhile things. He urged Muhammad to make some changes and allow the Nation of Islam to protest against the civil rights advocates. Soon the Nation removed Malcolm X as editor of their paper Muhammad Speaks. His coverage by the paper was also reduced. Later, he was not allowed to appear on television news broadcasts.

Malcolm X was stunned in 1963 by a suit brought against Elijah Muhammad, the supposed divine Messenger of Allah, by two of his former secretaries. The paternity suits claimed that Muhammad was the father of their four children. He never denied this, but rather justified it on the basis that he was a prophet. This shows the hypocrisy of the so-called prophet.

The breach between Muhammad and Malcolm X continued to widen. Muhammad suspended Malcolm X’s duties as national minister for 90 days. With the idea of making a comeback, Malcolm got in contact with a prize fighter, Cassius Clay, who was to convert to Islam. Helping Clay to prepare for a fight which he won, did little for Malcolm. In 1964, Malcolm X was relieved of his duties as minister of Temple Number Seven. He was surprised to learn that a Muslim official had ordered his assassination. Malcolm X announced his departure from the Nation of Islam. He went about to establish his own revolutionary group, Muslim Mosque. He made a pilgrimage to Mecca and a number of other Muslim countries. Upon his return he changed his name to declare his conversion to Orthodox Islam. Malcolm declared that he had changed his mind about some of his beliefs, but the differences between him and others did not diminish. In February 1965, Malcolm X was killed by gunmen as he was preparing to speak.

Five days after the killing of Malcolm X, Elijah Muhammad declared that Malcolm was a "star who had gone astray." On this "Savior’s Day," former Black Muslims who had been devoted to Malcolm’s activism at one time were gathered. In their midst was a young minister whom Malcolm had called "little brother." That little brother was Louis Farrakhan. To him we shall give some attention.

LOUIS FARRAKHAN — LOUIS X

Farrakhan spent his early years in Boston, where some of his family had been acquainted with Marcus Garvey’s UNIA. Through an uncle he became interested in the teaching of Islam. In 1952, Farrakhan heard Elijah Muhammad speak in Chicago. Due to a prearranged plan, Muhammad gave special attention to Farrakhan, impressing him greatly. In fact, he was so impressed that he joined the Nation of Islam immediately. Soon afterward he heard Malcolm X speak and was further impressed with Islam. Louis X’s faith in Muhammad remained steadfast in spite of Muhammad’s immoral actions.

Before the death of Malcolm X, Farrakhan would become his bitter enemy. The rift between them widened. After the death of Malcolm X, Farrakhan admitted that his strong opposition may have created a condition which led to his murder.

Soon after the death of Malcolm X, Farrakhan was appointed minister of Temple Number Seven in New York, where Malcolm X had preached for years. Louis’ critics accused him of financial mismanagement, and the FBI was concerned and launched an investigation, but didn’t prosecute him.

Conflicts over the Nation of Islam’s leadership arose in the early 1970s. Within a short time well over a dozen murders were committed. It was believed these were revenge killings. Some believed Farrahkan was involved. He did express his belief that anyone who killed a Muslim should be killed. At this period, though Elijah Muhammad was still in control of the Nation of Islam, Farrahkan was exercising considerable influence.

In 1972, the Nation of Islam received a $3-million loan from the Libyan government for a temple in Chicago. The countries of Abu Dahhi and Qatar provided funds for the cause of Islam in America. Jumping ahead several years, in 1986 Farrakhan set about to develop closer ties with Orthodox Islam. In defiance of an executive order by President Ronald Reagan, he visited Libya and met with Muhammad El-Qaddafi. After his return home he got a five million dollar loan from El-Qaddafi. A question which arises in my mind with regard to Farrakhan’s ties with Libya and El-Qaddafi. That question is — Would they have supplied this kind of money for the advancement of Islam in the U. S. if they thought it would be for the betterment of our country? Of course not, is my answer. This was an effort to advance Islam in another country, ours.

After the death of Elijah Muhammad in 1975, his son, Wallace, was appointed as Supreme Minister of the Nation of Islam. Wallace began to speak of reconciliation between blacks and whites, as Elijah Muhammad had begun to do in his later years. Differences soon arose between Wallace and Farrahkan, who was gaining influence. Due to sweeping changes by Muhammad Wallace, the Nation of Islam ceased to exist in October 1976. In its place would be "World Community of al-Islam in the West (WCIW).

In 1978, Farrakhan severed all ties with Muhammad Wallace and the WCIW, and soon announced his revival of the Nation of Islam. Both Farrakhan and Wallace declared themselves the spiritual heir of Elijah Muhammad. Farrakhan came out the winner, inheriting much of the property of the Nation of Islam. In 1978, Wallace resigned as leader of the WCIW. In 1984, Wallace initiated a voter registration program. Jesse Jackson was campaigning for presidency of the U. S.

Farrakhan was excited about Jackson’s run for president, and registered to vote for the first time. Jackson’s run was severely damaged when it was revealed that he had referred to Jews as "Hymies" and New York as "Hymietown." Farrakhan continued his criticism of Jews. He also compared himself to "a very great man — Adolph Hitler."

In 1985, Farrakhan went on a tour in the U. S. to establish black economic independence. It was in this connection that he got a five million dollar loan from El-Qaddfi in 1986. He encouraged the study of the Koran and sought to develop closer ties with Orthodox Islam.

Farrakhan gained considerable attention from the "Million Man March" which he advocated in 1994, and took place on October 16, 1995. We referred to this earlier under the heading of The Black Muslims. I would agree with William H. Banks, Jr, author of The Black Muslims, in his statement relative to Farrakhan that, "His remarks against non-blacks and his talk of a ‘final battle’ between good and evil—that is, blacks and whites—may upset many people." The hatred between blacks and whites is not the way to peace between them. The black Muslims have contributed greatly to problems within our society, and Christians should be concerned with any influence which creates a condition which is less conducive to the propagation of true Christianity, whether it be religious or otherwise.

NOTE: In our discussion of The False Religion Of Islam we have come to realize that more is involved than originally anticipated. Therefore, due to lack of space we are not continuing the discussion until the next issue of Banner of Truth. We want to give more attention to the influence of Islam in our country at the present time. Though it is helpful to know about Islam in the past, by learning some of its characteristics, it is very important to understand what influence it is having now, and what can be expected in the future if it continues its present growth. All Americans should be concerned, but Christians have an even greater reason to be.

As the influence of Islam increases rapidly in our country it is a matter of great urgency that our brethren, and all who profess to believe in the Bible as God’s word, give serious attention to what Islam really is and how our country would be affected if Islamic powers were in control.

In our discussion of The False Religion Of Islam in the October Issue of Banner of Truth we dealt with the beginning of this false religion and its rapid spread early on, and its progress over the centuries until recent times. We gave considerable attention to The Black Muslims and the spread of Islam in our country among the black people, especially during the past fifty years or more.

In our present discussion we shall give attention to Islam as evidenced by recent activities, including terrorism. We are especially concerned about the influence of Islam here in our own country. We believe that a great many of our people are being misled as to the true nature of Islam and are unaware of the danger it does or can pose to our country.

There has been more said about Islam this year than perhaps has been said in several years combined. However, one aspect of Islam which has not received the attention we believe it deserves, is the basis of Islamic authority. Though some in Islam accept the Sunna as an authority for their practices, the Koran (Qur’an) is the basic authority for Islam. The Sunna is a compilation of the things that Mohammed was said to have said, but were not written down.

We believe it is in order to set forth some of the teachings of the Koran which are in conflict with God’s word. These things are a matter of record that cannot be denied, though some defenders of Islam try to explain away these things which contradict God’s word as recorded in the Bible. It should be noted, and we shall give more attention to this later, that a great many Muslims still put into practice those things plainly stated in the Koran. We now note several examples.

ERROR TAUGHT BY THE KORAN

The following examples are by no means exhaustive. There are many, many passages in the Koran which are clearly in opposition to the word of God. The following quotations are from: The meaning of The Glorious Qur’an, Text and Explanatory Translation by Marmaduke Pickthall. This volume, printed by Taj Company Ltd., Karachi, Pakistan, is considered very reliable. The quotations are not given in any special order, but they do involve teachings with which Bible-believing people are quite familiar.

The Deity of Jesus Christ

"...The Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, was only a messenger of Allah, and His word which he conveyed unto Mary, and a spirit from Him. So believe in Allah and His messengers, and say not ‘Three’ – Cease! (it is) better for you!—Allah is only One God..." (Surah 4:171).

The Bible Teaches: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God" (Jno. 1:1-2). "...God was manifest in the flesh..." (I Tim. 3:16). "For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" (Col. 2:9).

Jesus the Son of God

"And they say: The Beneficent hath taken unto Himself a son. Assuredly ye utter a disastrous thing. Whereby almost the heavens are torn, and the earth split asunder and the mountains fall in ruin, That ye ascribe unto the Beneficent a son" (Surah 19:88-91).

The Bible teaches: "...Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee" (Heb. 5:5). "And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee...that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" (Lk. 1:35). "...Rabbi, thou art the Son of God..." (Jno. 1:49).

Existence of Jesus Christ

"Lo! the likeness of Jesus with Allah is as the likeness of Adam. He created him of dust, then He said unto him: Be! and he is" (Surah 3:59).

The Bible teaches: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God" (Jno. 1:1-2). See us and our (Gen. 1:26; 3:22).

Obtaining Salvation

"And as for him who believeth not in Allah and His messenger—Lo! We have prepared a flame for disbelievers" (Surah 48:13).

The Bible teaches: "And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him" (Heb. 5:9). "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). Cf. Romans 1:16. Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38. The Islam "god" is not the true God.

The Crucifixion of Jesus

"And because of their saying: We slew the Messiah Jesus son of Mary, Allah’s messenger—They slew him not nor crucified, but it appeared unto them; and lo! those who disagree concerning it are in doubt thereof; they have no knowledge thereof save pursuit of a conjecture; they slew him not for certain" (Surah 4:157).

The Bible teaches: "And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name" (Phil. 2:8-9).

Murder and Other Violence

"And slay them [disbelievers] wherever ye find them, and drive them out of the places where they drove you out, for persecution is worse than slaughter..." (Surah 2:191). "Then, when the sacred months have passed, slay the idolaters wherever ye find them, and take them (captive), and besiege them, and prepare for them each ambush..." (Surah 9:5). "O ye who believe! Fight those of the disbelievers who are near to you, and let them find harshness in you..." (Surah 9:123).

The Bible teaches: "...and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him" (I Jno. 3:15). "Envyings, murderers, drunkenness...shall not inherit the kingdom of God" (Gal. 5:21). "But the fearful...and murderers...shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone..." (Rev. 21:8). "But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matt. 5:44).

Note: If it be suggested that God sanctioned the killing of people, such as the Amalekites (I Sam. 15), we must bear in that mind that the killing of unbelievers by Christians is not approved under the New Covenant. Muslims who murder the "infidel" the "unbeliever" today are clearly violating God’s will. To true Muslims, we are "infidels."

The Treatment of Women

"Men are in charge of women, because Allah hath made one of them to excel the other, and because they spend their property (for the support of women)...As for those from whom ye fear rebellion, admonish them and banish them to beds apart, and scourge them..." (Surah 4:34). "Allah chargeth you concerning (the provision for) your children: to the male the equivalent of the portion of two females..." (Surah 4:11).

The Bible teaches: "If any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel" (I Tim. 5:8). "Therefore as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it" (Eph. 5:24-25).

Marriage and Wives

"...marry of the women, who seem good to you, two or three or four; and if ye fear that ye cannot do justice (to so many) then one (only) or (the captives) that your right hands possess..." (Surah 4:3).

The Bible teaches: "...Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife; and they twain shall be one flesh?" (Matt. 19:4-5). The New Testament no where authorizes a man to have a plurality of living wives.

The Exercise of One’s Will

"Lo! this is an Admonishment, that whosoever will may choose a way unto his Lord. Yet ye will not, unless Allah willeth. Lo! Allah is Knower, Wise. He maketh whom He will to enter His mercy, and for evil-doers hath prepared a painful doom" (Surah 76-29-31).

The Bible teaches: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28). "...And whosoever will, let him take of the water of life freely" (Rev. 22:17).

When The Judgment Comes

"And the foremost in the race...Those are they who will be brought nigh In gardens of delight;....On lined couches, reclining there face to face, There wait on them immortal youths With bowls and ewers and a cup from a pure spring Wherefrom they get no aching of the head nor any madness, And fruit they prefer....And (there are) fair ones with wide, lovely eyes, Like unto hidden pearls. Reward for what they used to do. Lo! we have created them a (new) creation and made them virgins, Lovers, friends....(Surah 56:10-12, 15-20, 22-24, 35-37).

The Bible teaches: "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away" (Rev. 21:4). God’s word promises no "fair ones with wide, lovely eyes" as a reward for what we used to do. God has made no "virgins" for the saved. There is much emphasis on sex in the Islam religion as the above passage indicates. Usama bin Laden is said to be the 17th of 52 children.

We have given only a few of the many examples where the Koran is in serious conflict with God’s word. Though the Koran is the basic source of authority with all Muslims, there is another source of authority with many, and we shall give some attention to that source.

THE ERROR OF ISLAMIC AUTHORITY

The above examples of error in the Koran should be sufficient to convince any Bible believer that Islam is indeed a false religion, which can bring only eternal destruction and not salvation. It is often the case that we hear of errors of Islam which are said not to be upheld by the Koran. The reason for this should be understood if we are to get a clear picture of Islam.

The Sunna is a collection of things which were supposedly said by Mohammed, but were never written down and are not a part of the Koran. With some Muslims these "traditions" which vary, are as authoritative as the Koran. Just imagine what would happen to unrecorded things which were passed on by word of mouth for fourteen centuries! In the first place, if the "traditions" were actually spoken by Mohammed it would still be the words of a false prophet, which should be rejected as such.

When we think of "tradition" as a source of authority, we should be aware that just about anything can be authorized by tradition. There is no better example of this than the Catholic Church. It is the position of Catholicism that their "traditions" are equally authoritative as is the Bible. Anyone who knows anything about the Catholic Church and the Bible knows that the Catholics teach a great many things which could never be found as authorized in God’s word. They are upheld by "tradition."

Another thing which should be considered with regard to religious authority, is that it is so often the case that people do not follow that which they claim as their authority. Just think of all the things which are now being taught in the name of God’s word here in our own country. Think how far people have gotten away from the Truth. The religion of Islam would be no different. That is, they claim the Koran is the actual word of God, and some claim the Sunna to also be inspired. Yet, many things are taught and practiced by Islam which could not be justified by either of their sources of false authority.

WHAT IS "RADICAL ISLAM" ?

In recent times we have heard many references made to "Radical Islam." This is an oft used description of the Taliban, which means "students of Islam." This is the Islamic power which took over in Afghanistan about five years ago. The names of Usama bin Laden and Mullah Mohammed Omar have often stood out as the leaders of the Taliban. At this writing, both of these men are in hiding, and the Taliban has come to virtual defeat with the exception of pockets of resistance. Many of the Taliban have fled into Pakistan.

As one delves into the history of Islam and reflects on its methods in its early beginning, and in centuries since, and even in some countries today, to coin the Islam of the Taliban as "Radical Islam," appears somewhat out of place. Islam has been known, and rightly so, as a religion of violence. While some Muslims are more moderate or secular than others, this doesn’t remove the facts of the core beliefs of this false religion. The true history of Islam is replete with examples of violence, including murder, against the "infidels," and that includes all who are not Muslims. When the oppression of Afghanistan came to be under the Taliban, countless individuals were murdered and people’s rights were taken away, and women were treated in a most inhumane way. Just how far from the teaching of Islam was this? Just how radical was it when compared with other periods of Islamic history, and the way some are treated in other countries even today?

Is the Taliban the epitome of true Islam? When people speak of "Radical Islam" in our time, it is often evident that true Islam, as verified by true history, is not considered. Much of what has been seen at the hands to the Taliban, is in keeping with the teaching of the Koran, and the Sunna with all its "traditions." A study of these sources of authority will reveal that much of what has been practiced by the Taliban under the leadership of Mullah Mohammed Omar and Usama bin Laden and their supporters, has been practiced before by true Islam.

In an article by Preston Mendenhall of MSNBC, entitled "A journey through Afghanistan," a number of things imposed by the Taliban are things which have been imposed in the past by true Islam. In some cases these things are supported by the Koran, and just about anything can be upheld by the Sunna, that is, by Islamic tradition.

"In today’s Afghanistan, thieves routinely have their limbs amputated. Women, banned from pursuing most careers, are executed for adultery." Women are restricted in many ways. They must cover themselves with burquas from head to toe. High heeled shoes are banned. Women are to have chaperones when leaving their houses. The making of photos is prohibited. Education for women is not allowed. Certain haircuts are off limits as is the playing of music, and many other things.

The above are only a few of the restrictions put in place by the Taliban. These things can be justified by the Koran, the Sunna, or by a perversion of these. These things can be called "Radical," only from the standpoint that not all Muslims practice them. In various instances, as recorded by Islamic history and as is still practiced in some Muslim countries, such things would hardly be called "radical." They were or are the norm.

Evidence from the Usama bin Laden videotape. In this tape an unidentified Shaykh speaks at length with Usama bin Laden. In the following paragraph (quoted in part) the Shaykh compares the terrorist’s acts of September 11, to what Islam used to be in the time of Muhammed and "the early years of Islam."

"No doubt it is a clear victory. Allah has bestowed on us...honor on us...and he will give us blessing and more victory...And this is what everyone is hoping for....I live in happiness, happiness...I have not experienced, or felt, in a long time. I remember, the words of Al-Rabbani, he said they made a coalition against us in the winter with the infidels like the Turks, and others, and some other Arabs. And they surrounded us like the days...in the days of the prophet Muhammed. Exactly like what’s happening right now...And it is a mercy for us. And a blessing to us. And it will bring people back...And the day will come when the symbols of Islam will rise up and it will be similar to the early days of Al-Mujahedeen and Al-Ansar (similar to the early years of Islam)....Finally said, it is the same, like the old days, such as Abu Bakr and Othman and Ali and others. In these days, in our times, that it will be the greatest jihad in the history of Islam and the resistance of the wicked people."

My point in the above quotation is the evidence that the Islam of the Taliban is not what would have been called "Radical" in the early years of Islam. The Taliban is trying to bring back true Islam and its evil, as the above clearly indicates.

True or pure Islam is a religion of violence of many forms. The idea that Islam is a religion of "peace" is not well founded by evidence. Islam means "submission," not peace. The violence which has been demonstrated by the terrorism of September 11th and those acts in other countries in the past few years should stand out as examples. These acts have not been vastly different from acts committed by Islam in its past, with regard to the evil involved.

Another point to be made from the Usama bin Laden video is his expression of great joy that his evil plan has been carried out. When a person smirkingly laughs at the death of thousands of innocent people, that has to be evidence of wickedness at its greatest. To claim such evil is God’s will is only to make it worse. Usama bin Laden is not alone in this evil. He has hundreds of thousands of cohorts. Let us not forget that this is a sample of Islam. To attribute their evil to a handful of fanatics is greaatly missing the mark of reality.

From the mountains of evidence, The Taliban is the epitome of true Islam, in my opinon.

AS AMERICANS VIEW ISLAM

As Americans, we tend to forget things which should be remembered, and often fail to reflect on obvious signs of warning. Our view of Islam tends to confirm this. The history of Islam is available to everyone who cares to access it. As powerful evidence was ignored in the days leading up to the tragedy of Pearl Harbor in 1941, so has warnings of terrorism against America by Islam been ignored in the past few years. It seems that we have forgotten again! Will we ever awaken to reality?

The current view of Islam by Americans is a very dangerous one. Especially is this true since we suffered the horrific evil perpetrated by adherents of Islam in September, a case in point. If this is not an example of what we can expect from Islam, can there be such? Even so, more and more we are hearing people speak of the peaceful Muslims. Note the following relative to how Americans are thinking about Muslims. The favorable view of Muslims by Americans has even increased greatly since the September 11th attack, according to a recent poll!

Murray Ledger & Times, Dec. 12, 2001, carried an article by Rachel Zoll, AP Religion Writer, entitled: Poll finds Americans’ view of U.S. Muslims improving. The article says in part:

The image of U.S. Muslims improved significantly in the eyes of their fellow Americans after the terrorist attacks, despite fears that the opposite would occur, according to a survey released Thursday.

Fifty-nine percent of Americans had a favorable view of U.S. Muslims in November compared to 45 percent in March, according to the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life.

Can you believe it! If we suffer another Islamic terrorist attack, will the image of the U.S. Muslims by Americans improve even more???

I would be among the first to say that we should do our best to convert Muslims to the truth of God, just as we should try to convert Catholics, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons and other cults. The gospel of Christ is the only thing which will save them. But at the same time, it is pure folly for us to overlook the danger posed by Islam. It is true that not all Muslims are as wicked as those who engage in the atrocious acts of terrorism. It is also just as true that those who have been engaged in terrorism cannot be divorced from Islam! They are a part of it. This cannot be denied. We must also bear in mind that these terrorist have multiplied thousands of supporters who are fellow Muslims.

Political influence. It is understandable that politically we need to have the support of some Muslim countries in the war against terrorism. But walking too soft a line could be dangerous. We hear the cry that this is not a war against Islam. Yet, it is a war against a part of Islam. If a great part of Islam didn’t go along with terrorism to some degree, wouldn’t they expell from their ranks the Muslim terrorists? Many Muslims were euphoric when they learned of the evil attack upon thousands innocent people on September 11.

Syndicated Columnist, Cal Thomas, had an article in Murray Ledger & Times, November 28, 2001, entitled The Kindness Offensive. He warns against going too far in trying to please the Muslims by kindness. In the following quotations we shall set forth some matters of concern stated by him.

President Bush on Manday (Nov. 19) invited 50 ambassadirs from Muslim countries to the White House for a traditional Iftar meal, breaking the sunrise-to-sunset daily fast of Ramadan. The ambassadors kenlt and touched their foreheads to the floor of the East Reception Room. It’s unlikely they were praying Lee Greenwood’s lyrics for "God Bless the USA." . . . .

Last Thursday (Nov. 15), a Muslim cleric delivered the opening prayer before the U.S. House of Representatives.

Have Charlotte Beers and President Bush read the Koran? Do they know what the Islamic clerics and the Arab press say about the West?

In New York City, Islamic public school children are now allowed to pray during the school day, a practice denied to Jews and Christians.

...Muslims who take their faith seriously are prohibited from making alliances with "infidels" except as a means to the end of forcing them to submit to Allah.

We realize the need to have improved relations with Muslim countries, but we must not go so far as to make them believe we accept their religion and its support of terrorism against our country. All Muslims who take their religion seriously and submit to the teachings of Islam cannot be our true friends; to them we are "infidels," and Islam is to oppose us. Those who are killed in war against the "infidels," (that’s us) are promised no less than heaven.

GROWTH OF ISLAM IN AMERICA

Some say that there are now six million Muslims in our country. There are indications that this number is increasing rapidly. Dianne S. Dew says that "Over 80,000 U.S. foreign exchange students are Muslim." Worldwide, Islam is the fastest growing religion, and part of that growth is in the U.S. Islam is now said to number one billion.

There are a number of things in our present society which are conducive to the growth of Islam, one of those being the effort to win them by The Kindness Offensive, as discussed above. People are being influenced to accept Islam as a "peaceful" religion rather than the religion of violence which it is. The true nature of Islam is being overlooked, even in spite of recent acts of violence.

We are now in a time when denominational religion has become more liberal than ever. Whereas some of the denominations used to have things for which they stood with some tenacity, this has changed drastically. With an increasing number of them just about anything goes. It is largely a matter of what the people, not God, wants. This is an advantage to Muslims, in that their religion is not as opposed as it once was in our country.

From Agape Press, in an article by Chad Groening, Nov. 2, 2001, we learn of affiliation between denominations and Islam. "...the fact that Christian churches have shared their pulpit with Islamic clerics shows there is a real need for the American people to be educated on the true nature of Islam."

"The Traditional Values Coalition reported last week that one of the largest churches in the country, Willow Creek Community Church...recently invited a Muslim cleric to explain the religion of Islam to 17,000 churchgoers over four services.....Willow Creek pastor Bill Hybels defended the session, saying some Christians are spreading rumors and half-truths that the Koran encourages violence." Read it! It does!

The Willow Creek Community Church is where J. Wayne Kilpatrick visited a few years ago, and came back all enamored with it and tried to sell it to more of our brethren. If Wayne was so impressed with Bill Hybels, who knows but what he might be impressed by a Muslim cleric, as was Hybels?

Not only has liberalism and indifference swept the ranks of denominationalism, the same thing has happened to the Lords church in great measure. There is an increasing affinity for denominationalism by many of our liberal brethren. In other words, it doesn’t make much difference to many as to what is taught and practiced. For example, if brethren, including preacher, elders and school board members uphold the fellowshipping of the Catholic Church, by what reason would they not fellowship the Muslims? Both represent error in its soul-condemning form.

Terrorist support in America. In the Dec. 24, 2001 issue of Murray Ledger & Times, there is a front page article entitled: Some U.S. students lend support to terrorist affiliates. The SACRMENTO, Calif. (AP), article says in part:

Muslim student organizations on college campuses around the country have openly raised money for groups whose assets have been frozen by the U. S. government because of alleged ties to terrorists. . . .

One group that has raised money for groups targeted by the U. S. government is the Muslim Student Association, which has more than 100 campus chapters around the country and conducts fund-raising by way of rallies, meetings and Web sites.

This is another bit of evidence as to what we may expect from some adherents of Islam. We must remember that to Muslims we are "infidels" and their "Holy Book" teaches that they should get rid of us.

HOW WOULD ISLAM AFFECT US?

We all know how it affected us on September 11, when thousands were wantonly murdered. In other terrorist attacks, not thousands but hundreds, were killed in the same way. Why would anyone believe these things cannot happen again at the hands of the Islamics?

If Islam should ever gain control of our country, we could expect the same thing which has happened in other Islamic countries. We would be oppressed and our freedoms would be taken away. Our women would be treated virtually as slaves. We could suffer death if we did not convert to Islam.

How would it affect the Lord’s church? Note the following from the article in Agape Press:

"We work in about fifty countries around the world, and many of these are Islamic nations," he says. "Your brothers and sisters in Christ are suffering terribly around the world, and since September 11 we’ve seen some cases where persecution has increased – in places like Nigeria and Indonesia."

"Lane says anyone who thinks Islam is a peaceful religion needs to visit the Sudan. "We’ve seen that Islam is not peaceful," he says. "It is a faith of submission, oppression, and persecution. Just ask the people in Sudan – they’ve been facing an Islamic jihad, a holy war against them, Christians in South Sudan, for eighteen years now."

Some of our own brethren have worked in Islamic countries, and they know the opposition which often exists. Islam would like to conquer the world, and who knows but that it could happen, if the present rate of Islamic growth continues in our country?

Under Islamic control, those of our country would not enjoy the religious freedom that we now have. To practice true Christianity it is necessary to "contend for the faith" (Jude 3). That is, we must fight for the faith in upholding God’s truth. Islam would not allow this, as is being demonstrated in some Muslim countries even today. Today worldliness and indifference constitute a great threat to the Lord’s church. Islam would simply add to that threat in a great measure.

Brethren, if we love the Lord and His church we must come to realize the danger which the false religion of Islam poses. We can never win the battle we face as Christians by any measure of compromise. Only the truth will make men free and keep them free from the guilt of sin. When we consider the difficult times faced by the church in its early days, and in times since, we should be reminded that we could face times just as difficult in our time. The liberalism which has invaded the Lord’s church only makes the opposition to the error which destroys the souls of men more difficult. This has been evidenced by the increased affinity for the man-made religions around us.

CONCLUSION

In the foregoing discussion of The False Religion Of Islam I have by no means delved into every aspect of it. I have, however tried to hit the high points of it and the many errors which it holds and propagates. If what I have stated is not enough to make people aware of the dangers of Islam, perhaps no amount of information would do so.

In conclusion let me note a few important facts:

1. Islam is growing at a rapid rate in the U.S. In 50 years it has grown from the 7th place to the 5th place in religions worldwide.

2. The teaching of the Sunna and the Koran does uphold violence, even to the killing of non-Muslims, the "infidels" and "servants of Satan. Some try to explain away the true teaching of Islam.

3. The only way a Muslim can be our true friend is to be a liberal with respect to Islamic teaching, as our liberal brethren are with respect to God’s word.

4. Muhammed Omar, Usama bin Laden, the Taliban and the al-Qadea network are examples of "pure Islam" in a great measure. How could a religion be more evil? The "shoe bomber" is the very latest in what can be expected from Islam.

5. In spite of the several demonstrations of the wickedness of "pure Islam," our people are said to be becoming more favorable toward Muslims. The growing indifference and lack of interest in the Christian religion in our country tends to make people less mindful of the danger which can be posed by false religions. There is no sure way to separate those of "pure Islam" from those who are moderate or liberal as Muslims.

As we face the future we should resolve as never before to serve the Lord at all costs. As our Lord told the church at Smyrna, "be thou faithful unto death" (to the point of dying for Christ) (Rev. 2:10), so should we be willing to do. Whatever the cost of serving the Lord, "Heaven will surely be worth it all." The great and precious promises and the terse warnings set forth in God’s word are for a purpose.

-J-