It’s important to recognize that our words and actions, whether intended or not, can contribute to the marginalization of Muslims. This calls for a Christ-like commitment to humility and openness in these discussions.
By Dr. Tim Orr
In today’s increasingly polarized world, discussions about Islam often bring with them accusations of Islamophobia or bigotry. For many evangelicals who seek to engage Muslims with the love of Christ while holding firm to biblical truth, navigating this debate can be challenging. How do we differentiate between legitimate critique of Islamic beliefs and practices and unfair prejudice against Muslims as people? As followers of Jesus, we must carefully approach this delicate topic, balancing truth with love, grace, and understanding. It’s important to recognize that our words and actions, whether intended or not, can contribute to the marginalization of Muslims. This calls for a Christ-like commitment to humility and openness in these discussions.
At its core, Islamophobia refers to an irrational fear, hatred, or prejudice against Islam and Muslims. This term, however, is often used ambiguously in public discourse, making it challenging to draw a clear line between valid criticism of Islamic theology and harmful, unjustified generalizations about Muslim people. As evangelicals, it’s important to recognize that critiquing a belief system does not equate to hating its adherents. The Apostle Paul’s example in Acts 17 is instructive. In his dialogue with the Athenians, Paul didn’t shy away from critiquing their beliefs, but he did so respectfully, pointing them toward the gospel's truth.
Similarly, engaging with Islamic theology in an honest but loving way can be done without crossing into Islamophobic rhetoric. Our critiques should come from a place of genuine concern for both truth and the well-being of Muslims. Just as Jesus engaged the Samaritan woman with both compassion and directness, we, too, can engage with wisdom and care.
Legitimate critique of Islam, like any other worldview, is part of healthy public discourse. Christianity has long been subject to criticism, some of which is thoughtful and necessary. In the same way, Islam, as a major world religion, should be open to intellectual and theological examination. For example, it is entirely appropriate to discuss theological differences between Islam and Christianity, such as the nature of God, the role of Jesus, and salvation. Engaging with Islamic texts, such as the Qur’an and Hadith, and discussing the implications of certain teachings—like the concept of jihad or the role of sharia law—can be valid debate topics. These discussions are not rooted in hatred but a desire to seek truth and understand the differences between worldviews. As evangelicals, we believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6), and we are responsible for sharing this truth. However, we must ensure that our critiques remain focused on ideas, not vilifying individuals. We should always be aware that Muslims, like anyone else, are more than their religious beliefs and practices. Building relationships is key to gaining trust and meaningful conversations beyond surface-level critique.
Islamophobia, on the other hand, does not seek understanding or truth but breeds hostility. When we ascribe the actions of a few extremists to the entire Muslim population, we engage in dangerous generalizations. It’s important to remember that the vast majority of Muslims are peace-loving people who are also made in the image of God. Islamophobia damages our witness as Christians. If we contribute to the fear and mistrust of Muslims, we are building barriers to the gospel rather than bridges. Instead of embodying Christ’s love, we can inadvertently align ourselves with a political or cultural agenda that fuels division. As the Body of Christ, we are called peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), showing love even to those we may disagree with theologically. We should examine our hearts for any implicit bias or prejudice that may color our interactions with Muslims. True Christian love requires us to rise above the rhetoric of fear and hatred that often surrounds discussions about Islam.
Several biblical principles can help guide us as we engage in discussions about Islam and the issue of Islamophobia.
Evangelicals have a unique opportunity to respond to Islamophobia by modeling Christ’s love for all people. This means rejecting any form of hostility or hatred toward Muslims and instead promoting understanding and dialogue. One practical way to do this is by fostering relationships with Muslim neighbors. We can break down stereotypes and build trust by getting to know Muslims personally. Sharing meals, participating in interfaith dialogues, and engaging in acts of service together can create opportunities for meaningful conversations about faith.
Additionally, we can challenge Islamophobia within our communities. When we hear derogatory comments about Muslims, we can speak out in defense of their dignity as fellow image-bearers of God. We can also educate ourselves and our churches about the beliefs and practices of Muslims, equipping ourselves to engage with them thoughtfully and respectfully. Taking steps to understand Muslims personally helps us see them not as an "other" but as people with whom we share common human experiences. This understanding is essential for truly living out the Great Commission.
Navigating the line between Islamophobia and legitimate critique is no easy task, but it is essential for evangelicals who seek to engage Muslims with the gospel. As we critique Islamic beliefs, we must do so with love, humility, and a desire for truth. We must avoid contributing to the fear and mistrust that characterizes Islamophobia, instead building bridges of understanding and friendship. Ultimately, our goal should be to reflect Christ in all we do, speak truth in love, and show the world that the gospel brings hope and peace to all people, including our Muslim neighbors. Our words and actions can either open doors for dialogue or reinforce barriers. Let us choose to be peacemakers, as Christ calls us to be, for the sake of the gospel and the glory of God.
The ideas in this article are mine, but AI was used to write the article.
Tim Orr is an Evangelical minister, conference speaker, and interfaith consultant with over 30 years of experience in cross-cultural ministry. He holds six degrees, including a master’s in Islamic studies from the Islamic College in London. Tim taught Religious Studies for 17 years at Indiana University Columbus and is now a Congregations and Polarization Project research associate. He has spoken at universities, including Oxford, and mosques throughout the U.K. His research focuses on American Evangelicalism, Islamic antisemitism, and Islamic feminism, and he has published widely, including three books.
