Darvish Intelligence: Why Christianity is True and Islam is False

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

Why Christianity is True and Islam is False

By Bobby Darvish - darvishintelligence.blogspot.com

As an Iranian-American ex-Muslim who embraced Christianity, my journey has been one of profound transformation and deep reflection. Coming from a Muslim background, I was raised to believe in the tenets of Islam. However, my experiences and the teachings of Christianity have led me to firmly believe that Christianity is the true path to salvation, while Islam falls short in its claims.

The Nature of God

One of the most significant differences between Christianity and Islam lies in their understanding of God. Christianity teaches the concept of the Holy Trinity—God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. This triune nature of God emphasizes a relational aspect, where God desires to be in a personal relationship with humanity. The New Testament, especially in John 1:14, states, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us,” highlighting the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ, who offers grace and redemption.

In contrast, Islam views God (Allah) as a singular, unrelational entity, emphasizing His transcendence over His immanence. Surah 112 of the Quran declares, “Say, ‘He is Allah, [who is] One,’” reflecting a strict monotheism that denies the divinity of Christ and the relational nature of God. This lack of relationality in Islam leads to a more fear-based relationship with God rather than one rooted in love and grace.

The Person of Jesus Christ

The life and teachings of Jesus Christ are central to Christianity. Jesus is not merely a prophet; He is the Son of God who lived a sinless life and sacrificed Himself for our sins. In Romans 5:8, it is stated, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This sacrificial love is the cornerstone of Christian faith, offering hope and assurance of salvation to believers.

In contrast, Islam views Jesus (known as Isa) as a revered prophet but not divine. The Quran explicitly denies the crucifixion and resurrection, stating in Surah 4:157 that Jesus was not killed nor crucified but was raised to heaven by Allah. This denial undermines the fundamental message of Christianity, which is centered on Christ’s death and resurrection as the means of salvation.

The Concept of Salvation

Christianity teaches that salvation is a gift of grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8-9 articulates this beautifully: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” This understanding liberates believers from the burden of earning their way to God through deeds.

In contrast, Islam teaches that salvation is achieved through a combination of faith and good works, emphasizing adherence to the Five Pillars of Islam and the hope of Allah’s mercy. Surah 2:277 states that “righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is in one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, and the Prophets.” This focus on works can lead to anxiety over one’s standing with God, unlike the assurance found in Christian faith.

Historical Context and Prophecies

Christianity is rooted in historical events that can be verified through various sources, including the New Testament and secular historians. The prophecies regarding the Messiah in the Old Testament, fulfilled in Jesus, provide a strong foundation for the truth of Christianity. Isaiah 53, for example, describes the suffering servant who would bear the sins of many—this is directly fulfilled in Jesus’ crucifixion.

On the other hand, the historical accuracy of Islamic claims, particularly regarding Muhammad’s life and the compilation of the Quran, is often disputed. Many Islamic traditions were transmitted orally before being written down, leading to inconsistencies. Furthermore, the claims made in the Quran about earlier scriptures often lack historical support.

Conclusion

My journey from Islam to Christianity was not merely a shift in religious affiliation but a profound transformation in understanding God’s nature, the role of Jesus Christ, and the path to salvation. Christianity, with its message of grace, love, and the assurance of salvation through faith in Christ, stands in stark contrast to the fear-based, works-oriented faith of Islam.

As I reflect on my past and the truth I have found in Christ, I urge those still on their spiritual journey to seek the truth for themselves. Christianity is not just a belief system; it is the embodiment of God’s love for humanity, a love that desires a personal relationship with each of us.

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