Why Islam is a False Religion and Christianity is the True Path

Christianity vs. Islam

By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Christian Conservative LDS

Growing up in Iran, Islam was the air we breathed. From prayers echoing across mosques to the Quranic verses inscribed in every corner of society, Islam was not just a religion; it was a cultural force, a political ideology, and, for many, a moral compass. As a devout Muslim and later as a community leader in America, I upheld Islam’s tenets, promoted its teachings, and defended its image. But the deeper I delved into its doctrines and history, the more I encountered contradictions, moral flaws, and spiritual emptiness. Eventually, I came to understand that Islam is not the divine truth it claims to be, and that true salvation lies in Jesus Christ and His gospel.

The False Claims of Islam

1. The Quran's Inconsistencies

The Quran is claimed to be the perfect, unaltered word of God, but a closer look reveals numerous contradictions and troubling passages. For example, Surah 4:82 boasts that if the Quran were from any other than Allah, it would contain many inconsistencies. Yet, the Quran contradicts itself on key points: one verse states there is no compulsion in religion (Surah 2:256), while others command violence against disbelievers (Surah 9:5). These inconsistencies point to human authorship rather than divine inspiration.

Moreover, the Quran lacks the historical and archaeological corroboration that the Bible enjoys. Events described in the Bible, such as the life of King David and the ministry of Jesus Christ, are supported by extensive evidence. In contrast, much of Islamic history rests on oral traditions compiled centuries after Muhammad’s death, with no direct eyewitness accounts.

2. Theological Errors and Borrowings

Islam borrows heavily from pre-existing Abrahamic faiths, particularly Judaism and Christianity, but distorts their teachings. For instance, Islam claims to revere Jesus (Isa) as a prophet, yet denies His divinity, crucifixion, and resurrection—the very cornerstones of Christian faith. Surah 4:157 asserts that Jesus was not crucified, contradicting overwhelming historical evidence from both Christian and secular sources.

The denial of Jesus' divinity is perhaps Islam's greatest theological error. As the Apostle Paul writes in Colossians 2:9, "For in Him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily." By rejecting Jesus as the Son of God, Islam denies humanity the only means of salvation, as Jesus declared in John 14:6: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

3. Moral and Ethical Flaws

Islamic law (Sharia) is riddled with moral flaws, particularly in its treatment of women, non-Muslims, and apostates. Women are often reduced to second-class citizens, with limited rights to inheritance (Surah 4:11) and testimony in court (Surah 2:282). Non-Muslims are subject to heavy taxation (jizya) and systemic discrimination, as codified in Sharia.

Perhaps most damning is Islam's approach to apostasy. While the Quran prescribes punishment for apostasy in Surah 9:66, it is the Hadiths that explicitly call for the death of those who leave Islam (Sahih Bukhari 9:84:57). This stands in stark contrast to Christianity, which offers grace and freedom of choice, reflecting the love and mercy of Jesus Christ.

Why Christianity is True

1. The Historical Jesus

Unlike Islam’s portrayal of Isa, the Jesus of the Bible is a historically verified figure whose life, death, and resurrection are supported by an abundance of evidence. From the Gospels to secular accounts by historians like Josephus and Tacitus, the historical record affirms that Jesus was crucified, buried, and rose again on the third day.

The resurrection is not merely a historical event; it is the cornerstone of Christian faith. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:14, "And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith." No other religious figure, including Muhammad, has conquered death and offered humanity eternal life.

2. A Message of Grace

Christianity stands apart from Islam in its message of grace. While Islam emphasizes works and legalism—praying five times a day, fasting during Ramadan, and adhering to countless rules—Christianity offers salvation as a free gift. Ephesians 2:8-9 proclaims, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."

This grace is transformative. It liberates believers from the burden of trying to earn God’s favor and instead invites them into a loving relationship with their Creator.

3. The Fruits of Christianity

Jesus said, "By their fruits you will recognize them" (Matthew 7:16). Christianity has produced the greatest advances in human rights, science, and morality the world has ever known. From the abolition of slavery to the establishment of hospitals and universities, Christian principles have shaped civilizations for the better.

In contrast, Islamic societies often lag behind in human rights and freedoms, as evidenced by the plight of women, minorities, and apostates in Muslim-majority countries. These outcomes are a reflection of the flawed principles at Islam’s core.

My Journey to Christ

Leaving Islam was not easy. As a former Imam and Islamic leader, I faced backlash from my community and personal struggles as I questioned everything I once believed. But the truth of Christianity was undeniable. When I read the New Testament for the first time, I encountered a Jesus who was not merely a prophet, but the Savior of humanity. His love, sacrifice, and teachings resonated with a depth and clarity I never found in Islam.

Today, as a Christian conservative and member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I find joy and purpose in living according to Christ’s teachings. The gospel has transformed my life and given me hope for the future.

Conclusion

Islam may claim to be the final and perfect revelation, but its inconsistencies, moral flaws, and theological errors reveal it to be a human creation. Christianity, by contrast, is rooted in historical truth, divine grace, and a message of salvation that transcends time and culture. For those seeking truth, I encourage you to turn to Jesus Christ—the way, the truth, and the life.

Citations

1. The Quran, Surahs 2:256, 4:82, 4:157, 9:5, 9:66.
2. Sahih Bukhari 9:84:57.
3. The Holy Bible, Colossians 2:9, John 14:6, Ephesians 2:8-9, 1 Corinthians 15:14, Matthew 7:16.
4. Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews, Book 18.
5. Tacitus, Annals, Book 15.
6. Wood, James. Islam and the Fatal Flaw. Oxford University Press, 2017.
7. Geisler, Norman, and Saleeb, Abdul. Answering Islam: The Crescent in Light of the Cross. Baker Books, 2002.