>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 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. Charles Stanley ordering Protestants to do the same in
>order to go to Heaven!"
>
>The Imam was speechless.
>
>I continued, "I also have a 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 He 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!
>
>
>* Senders words: I think everyone in the US should be required to read
>this. The author, Rick Mathes, is a well known prison ministry leader.