Core Issue (4) - Responding Redemptively to Fundamentalism

Now that we've understood a bit about what Muslim fundamentalists are after, let's discuss how we can respond like Jesus.  No doubt, there are issues that we as Christians have legitimate concerns about in regards to the aspirations of radical Muslims.  We need to think however in terms of people, not a movement, religion, or group.  Christine Mallouhi in her great book Waging Peace on Islam has this to say: "We cannot relate to Islam. It is an impersonal theology.  We can only relate to, or make war on people - not ideologies or theologies. How can we declare (spiritual) war on Islam, viewing it as an enemy, without feelings of fear and hostility to the  Muslim person on the television screen or living on our street?" Jesus commanded 'love your neighbor as yourself' and 'love your enemies.'  He did not say anything about love or hostility towards a religion or ideology.  It is not our job to confront Muslim fundamentalists as a group, or try to change their collective minds.  It is our role to be Christ to individuals God has placed in our sphere of influence. With this in mind here's some suggestions:

1. Consider engaging Muslims in your community by visiting a mosque, writing a blog,  leading a trip to a Muslim area or getting involved with International students at your local University.  Make efforts to love those that are different in your neighborhood, school and workplace, regardless of their convictions, ideology or religion.  We should treat Muslims just as gracefully and lovingly as we treat fellow believers. Heart change usually happens within the context of individual relationships. One study found that those who actually knew a Muslim personally, we're significantly less likely to fear Islam.  Likewise, those that know a follower of Christ personally, will more likely be open to discussing Christ.
2. Affirm what you can about the goals of Muslim fundamentalists.  Speak of your desire to live a moral life, to avoid immoral influences and to protect your family from the evils of society.  Be active in your community towards these ends.  Consider linking arms with Muslims in campaigns against immorality, injustice, violence and family values. 
   
3. In matters of doctrine and theology, hold steadfast to God's word.  Quote it often unashamedly, and point out the issues of agreement and disagreement with grace and respect.
4. Don't participate in the rhetoric and ethnocentrism found in many email forwards, books, sermons and popular Christian culture. Represent Christ first and foremost, not America.  Don't be blinded by fear and false patriotism.  Study what the bible has to say about nationalism, and the relationship of the church and the state. Seek to understand the perspective of Muslims towards American involvement in the Middle East by asking questions, and listening first.  Be a proponent and defender of peace, justice and the grace of God before American political interests.   
5. Allow Muslims the freedom that has been extended to all citizens of America.  Allow them to voice their ideologies and campaign for their convictions.  At points which you disagree, dialogue with candor and respect.  Christians should be leading the charge to listen and understand, not raise voices and condemn.
6. Leave matters of national security to the state.  It is not the role of the church to condemn militant terrorists.  These are a small group of screwed up thugs who should be brought to justice by the proper authorities.  Let the government worry about it, and let the church worry about matters of the heart.  Get involved in addressing the root issues that contribute to radicalism such as poverty, illiteracy, communication, education, water and food supply, religious freedom and justice. 
7. When confronted with obstinate and disagreeable individuals, be gracious, shake the dust from your feet, and move on.  Do not waste your time.  Agreeing to disagree is a valid conclusion.  You do not have to win every argument, you do not have to be friends with every Muslim.  Ultimately God changes hearts, not man.
8. Overall, seek to be like Jesus.  In humility, consider others better than yourselves, seek to understand before being understood.