Allah or
Jesus?
By Rick Mathes
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 who represented 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 all of the 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 said, “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 tell 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
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!
This article is an exact recording of a real event that I
participated in. My only commentary was, “the truth will prevail.” I have no
further comment.
www.missiongateministry.org
Press On!
Rick Mathes