Comparing
Muhammad and Jesus
Muhammad
was a charismatic leader who successfully replaced much of the
rampant idolatry of his time with the worship of Allah. Although he
taught that Jesus was a true prophet, Muhammad didn’t accept him as
the Son of God or the savior of men. He rejected Jesus’ message of
love, forgiveness, and grace, in favor of obedience to the rules of
Islam.
Muhammad’s
essential message was one of submission and servitude to Allah. He
taught that those who believe in the Qur’an and do righteous deeds
will be rewarded after death, but those who disbelieve (infidels) and
fail to obey Islam’s Five Pillars will suffer severe punishment.
Therefore, our eternal status is based upon our deeds rather than
God’s forgiveness and grace.
Jesus
Christ brought a completely different message. He said those who
believe in him are sons of God rather than slaves. And our hope for
eternal life is based upon his
sacrificial death
alone,
rather than our own deeds. Jesus said that those who truly put their
faith in him are completely forgiven of all their sins, and have
peace with God and purpose for living. And they will discover new
power to live for him.
