I.

Introduction

It might seem odd to some that on a June evening, so many would gather to consider the titles and identity of a religious figure from 2000 years ago.  Perhaps some would come because of historical interest or some other abstract academic consideration.  Others might come out of a religious interest, a mild curiosity for exotic or esoteric knowledge.  But others, though, would see more than some slightly relevant topic of  research.  They would realize that this title for Jesus, “Messiah” or “Christ” in English, goes to the heart of the truth claims for two major world religions.

Muslims and Christians especially know this is an important topic because it highlights the issue of the true identity of Jesus, and with his identity His true message.  Historically, many people have claimed to be the Messiah but both Muslims and Christians hold Jesus to be the one true Messiah.  To Muslims the title is one of great respect given to Jesus in the Qur’an which supports the Qur’an’s view of Jesus’ role as a prophet.  To Christians, the title is one of supreme importance, revealing an exalted personal identity and a universal eternal mission.

Tonight I will compare the respective views of Jesus as the Messiah in Islam and Christianity.  I will compare and contrast them and bring out  the significant issues of the views for these two religions.

Also, in presenting and comparing them I will bring out the personal challenges that this title, “Messiah” brings out for Christians, Muslims, and others.

I am a Christian, and this meeting is sponsored by Christians, so there is Christian literature available for free on the table.  Also, I want to say at the outset that the organizers of this meeting and I do want to persuade people to believe in the Jesus of the Bible.  It would be deceitful to deny it.  But, with that desire, we also realize that before God, we must not in any way misrepresent the views of another religion or person, or try in any way to force belief.   Before God we must treat the convictions of other people with respect and sympathy and treat evidence evenhandedly.  We should all agree that truth cannot be supported, defended, or promoted with falsehood.  That is both logically and ethically wrong.  To that end, I invite any criticisms and corrections to what I am about to present.

My plan for this evening is to first, present an outline of the Islamic view of Jesus as the Messiah.  Then I would like to present the Christian view.  I will then draw out some key similarities and differences.  To finish, I will present some challenges this material raises for all of us.