Author: Rick Mathes
Publication: Urbanlegends.about.com
Date:
URL: http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_allah_or_jesus.htm
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 representing
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 most
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 stated, 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 tells
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!
Rick Mathes, is a well known leader in prison
ministry.