Continuing the discussion of the real issue regarding the Islamic influence in the West, the Wall Street Journal editorial on Saturday was so bold as to say that what we are witnessing is not a clash of civilizations but a clash within the Islamic civilization; A clash between moderate and radical Muslims. Today’s edition included a letter to editor in response asking why the moderate voices being heard in Islam are only coming from Muslims in Western nations; a very good question. Muslims, whether moderate or radical are all monotheistic, and they have the same goal. It’s just that some are in first gear and some are in fourth gear. The moderates are more than willing to take their time in Western nations to gain influence quietly. But do not be deceived, when they are in the majority, they will not be championing republican forms of government. It’s hard to think of many Muslim-majority nations where that is happening. Furthermore, they will certainly not be seeking first the
And, Happy Valentine’s Day! The Wall Street Journal reports that this is the one particular day each year when both spouses and mistresses expect to be treated rightly. That leads to more infidelity investigations for the private investigator’s industry – most will increase their workforces dramatically today. Divorce lawyers also see a substantial spike in filing papers in the days immediately following Valentine’s Day. Because of sin, the day of love and romance turns into a day of brokenness and pain for too many. While being a practicing Christian may not appeal to some as providing a very exciting life, reading reports like these makes me grateful for my boring life in which I can truly live life to the fullest. So, for those who are married, dwell deeply on Genesis 2:23-25, and enjoy the day. And for those who are not, don’t be distracted by the world and instead meditate on Song of Solomon 2:7.
posted by Elizabeth @ 2/14/2006 01:42:00 PM
3 Comments:
I commented in your other post before reading this one...but I would continue in my comment by agreeing with your fear of the "moderate" Muslims; those who are, day by day, seeking to infiltrate various societies and bear more children than the average Asian, European or American. How long will it take until the majority of different nations are Muslim? That is a scary thought. Per my comment in your other entry about non-extremist Muslims appearing to ignore commands in the Koran...such as commands to kill the infidel (unbeliever)…your point about them having a different method with the same goal clarifies my idea on that.
In a recent conversation about Muslims, someone (I think it was Harry Metzger) pointed out how Muslims have been and are more faithful to their god than we Christians have been to our God through the ages. It was sad at first, but as I thought about it, their god, in being a false god, does not require things of them that are difficult to give. Their god is not just and holy like our God who requires atonement for sin, and they do not have to die to themselves to grow in their faith....it is a man-centered religion and in being so, is not particularly difficult to remain faithful. They made their own religion and can stick to it. What do you think?
On the side, it's also intriguing to consider the promotion of Islam by many liberals - the same liberals who advocate the separation of church and state. Is not the form and function of Islamic government unseparated from its religious themes and goals?
While I think you're correct in seeing a clash between Islam and Christianity, I would question whether it is all that different than the clash between Christianity and any other religion or worldview. All philosophies seek to conform the world to their image, and all non-Christian philosophies are hostile to Christ. One might say the difference is that Muslims accomplish their goals through killing people, but other philosophies turn people away from Christ which just as surely causes their deaths, does it not?
As I commented on Alicia's blog, the only way to stem the tide against this clash of civilizations (as with clashes with other religions and philosophies) is to preach the Gospel to those who are not saved. I don't think that Muslims have any special powers greater than other groups of non-Christians. If God were to allow Muslims to gain control of America and implement Shari'a law and so forth, I would have to imagine that would lead to a tremendous growth in the number of believers in this country (since persecution historically leads to growth in the church) and also might shake the lethargic out of their complacency. I'm not saying I wish that would happen, just that I don't think it would be the end of the world. In a sense, I'd rather see our nation become the next Saudi Arabia than see it meander further and further down the secular humanist/I'm-ok-you're-ok trajectory we've been on for the past several decades.
Those are very good points, Catherine. I appreciate your perspective.
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