A Christian/Islamic Theology

For those of you who missed it, I've been having an epic debate with Mark, of Faithful Democrats on this very topic. Since we seem to have been cut short, before we reached a decision, I've decided to continue the discussion in another blog.

For those interested in our first round of debate, you can find this in the comments section of Tolerance or Mush?

Now before I continue, I would like to say that I respect your opinion Mark. You take a theological stance that all truth is derived from scriptural evidence. This is by its nature a logically consistent view. It can be traced back, and discussed in a rational manner, and this furthers the concept of truth. Now I respectfully disagree with your opinion, because I think that you have allowed religous Dogma to devaluate your stance. In essence, you have argued against Post-Modernism, and in so doing, you have fallen into a post-modernist trap of deconstructing your own argument. (This is a topic I have discussed in greater detail, in the post The Fallacies of Neo-Conservatism)

Anyways, to the topic at hand.

I think that your over-all point is that two conflicting opinions cannot both be true.

This is a metaphysical proposition of logic, as such I will answer this with logic. When dealing with the truth of an argument, the question is whether the argument is consistent within itself. If so, then it is considered to be true. Thus if Islam creates a series of metaphysical propositions that are consistent, it is considered to be true. If Christianity does the same, it is likewise considered to be true. Hence Islam and Christianity can both be true.

Now if we are attempting to create a consistent theology between the two, this becomes somewhat problematic, since many Christians hold to the divinity of Christ. In contrast, Islam holds that there is one God, and that to deify a man is Idolatry.

The trinity actually makes a good compromise. In this, By worshiping God, one worships Christ by default, and hence no Idolatry is commited. (and vice-versa)

Now further, I should add that Paul makes the argument in Romans 5:18

"Therefore as by the the offense of one, judgment came upon all men to condemnation, even so by righteousness of one, the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life"

To this, Imrans 3:59 (of the Koran states) This revelation, and this wise admonition, we recite to you. Jesus is like Adam in the sight of God. He created him of dust and then said to him: be and he was.

So between these two statements I think a consistent theology could be formulated between the two religions, with an emphasis as Christ our saviour.

I'd also like to add on another note, a given pretext for non-violent Jihad.

Inram 3:21 "To Those who have recieved the scripture and to the Gentiles say: 'Will you surrender yourselves to God? If they shall become Muslims they shall be rightly guided; if they give no heed, then your only duty is to warn them. God is watching all his servants."

In response to the Islamic extremist, who uphold violent Jihad, I would argue:

"There are some among them who twist their tongues when quoting scriptures, so that you may think they are quoting from the scriptures, where-as it is not from the scriptures. Thus they say: "This is from God,' where-as it is not from God. Thus they knowingly ascribe a falsehood to God." Imran 3 : 78

Now I admit, there is some support for violence in the name of God in the Koran. However, the argument follows that dying in the Name of God is righteous, and that the followers of Islam should not retreat from battle. This should be considered a justification for the defense of Islam, and not for the violent application of the religion. Hence if Christians follow the teachings of Christ, and turn the other Cheek, the supporters of violent Jihad, by application of their scripture, violate its sancticty by by engaging in warfare with a non-violent ideology.

I mention this, because this argument is our best defense against terrorism.

I would finally add some other thoughts from the Koran

"This is a declaration to mankind:a guide and an adomonition to the righteous Take heart and do not despair. Have faith and you will triumph." Imran 3:139

At any rate, this is an important discussion, as I would evidence from the article We cannot afford to maintain these ancient prejudices against Islam .

I've also posted this blog in Street Prophets to see an expanded dialogue on the topic.

Kozzmo