All religions are not alike despite the the mainstream
media's message today....
Last month I attended my annual training session
that's required for maintaining my state prison
security clearance. During the training session there
was a presentation by three speakers representing the
Roman Catholic, Protestant and Muslim faiths who
explained their belief systems.
I was particularly interested in what the Islamic Imam
had to say.
The Imam gave a great presentation of the basics of
Islam, complete with a video. After the
presentations, time was provided for questions and
answers.
When it was my turn, I directed my question to the
Imam and asked:
"Please, correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand
that most Imams and clerics of Islam have declared a
holy jihad [Holy war] against the infidels of the
world. And, that by killing an infidel, which is a
command to all Muslims, they are assured of a place in
heaven. If that's the case, can you give me the
definition of an infidel?"
There was no disagreement with my statements and
without hesitation he replied, "Non-believers!"
I responded, "So, let me make sure I have this
straight. All followers of Allah have been commanded
to kill everyone who is not of your faith so they can
go to Heaven. Is that correct?"
The expression on his face changed from one of
authority and command to that of a little boy who had
just gotten caught with his hand in the cookie jar.
He sheepishly replied, "Yes."
I then stated, "Well, sir, I have a real problem
trying to imagine Pope John Paul commanding all
Catholics to kill those of your faith or Pat
Robertson or Dr. Stanley ordering Protestants to do
the same in order to go to Heaven!"
The Imam was speechless.
I continued, "I also have problem with being your
friend when you and your brother clerics are telling
your followers to kill me. Let me ask you a
question. Would you rather have your Allah who tells
you to kill me in order to go to Heaven or my Jesus
who tells me to love you because I am going to Heaven
and He wants you to be with me?"
You could have heard a pin drop as the Imam hung his
head in shame.
Chuck Colson once told me something that has sustained
me these 20 years of prison ministry. He said to me,
"Rick, remember that the truth will prevail." And it
will!
Note: I think everyone in the US should be required to
read this. The author, Rick Mathes, is a well known
prison ministry leader.