Many are telling us that America is on the move into a post-Christian agenda like Europe did 25-50 years ago, but it’s moving at a more incredible speed of change than Europe did. Several recent surveys reveal that the size of the Christian evangelical church in America is around 21 to 22 million—7-8% of the total population—not the 60 million to 70 million of past reports. Others might believe in God or go to mainline denominational churches, but not churches where the Bible’s standard and authority over all cultural issues of debate is used.
One of the significant aspects of Jesus to Muslims ministry is to reach Muslims with the message of assurance of eternal life available through Christ. During conversations and dialogues, some Muslims refer to the decline of genuine believers who claim Jesus as the only way. To shun the message of Jesus, being the only way, one of their excuses is: “Look, many who call themselves Christians have gone astray. Go to them first. Put your own house in order, then come tell us about the uniqueness of Jesus and the assurance of eternal life he provides.”
The answer I give is that now that you have understood that Jesus is the only hope, why not follow him and join me to go after the prodigals together to help them embrace the real hope in Christ.’ Indeed, many of them refuse.
Nevertheless, we faithfully continue to reach Muslims and equip Christians. We have found most churches are not teaching the body of Christ about this power from God, the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to witness. Therefore, those Christians who rely on their own ability face failures. So, we are not surprised by what is happening outside and inside the ‘church’ (2 Timothy 3:1-17; 2 Timothy 4:3-5). As believers, our faith is more confirmed in the integrity of the Bible and in the calling to obey the Great Commission with the power of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:16-20; Mark 16:15–18; Luke 24:44-49; John 20:19-23; and Acts 1:8.). God’s judgment is at hand, and it is concerning: “For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (1 Peter 4:17)
The Great Commission
Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:18-20). Muslims are included in “all nations,” – and they desperately need the Good News of Jesus Christ! ─ Steven Masood.
