Since President Trump issued the temporary travel ban against citizens from seven predominantly Muslim nations, there has been no end of controversy. Some foreign leaders have criticized it; others have supported it. Likewise, within America, many Christian leaders have joined in protests and petitions, while others have argued its merits. What concerns me isContinue reading “How Would Jesus Respond to the Travel Ban”
Tag Archives: Jesus
Christmas in the Bible and the Al Qur’an
“Why do you think God announced the birth of Al Masih (the Messiah) to shepherds?” I asked my Muslim friend. We had been talking about the Christmas story, and how the Al-Qur’an and the Bible emphasize different aspects of the story, but the Bible definitely includes a lot more detail. Already mentioned were the similaritiesContinue reading “Christmas in the Bible and the Al Qur’an”
Is Jesus the “Son of God”?
Recently I was having a meal in my home with a Muslim brother who often quotes the Bible to me and has a high honor for Jesus. I loved his openness to talk about Jesus, and wanted him to know that at least some of the differences between how Muslims and Christians talk aboutContinue reading “Is Jesus the “Son of God”?”
Where will my journey end?
I read a fascinating story recently about a man named Ed. Ed’s parents were religious, but felt that faith should be confined to yourself and your immediate faith community. In high school, Ed met some teenagers who were on fire for their faith and concerned about its global advancement. He joined their youth groupContinue reading “Where will my journey end?”
Caught in Adultery
I was reading this morning the incredible Biblical account found in John chapter 8 of a woman caught in adultery who was brought to Jesus for judgment. The religious leaders who caught her wanted to stone her, in accordance with the law of Moses. But Jesus stooped and wrote with his fingerContinue reading “Caught in Adultery”
Jihad and Jesus
We are all troubled by the images of terrorist acts in France, or ISIS beheadings in the Middle East. It’s shocking and offensive to us that civilians are often the target. The term jihad may be the most hated word in the world today. But before we join all the political pundits pointing fingers,Continue reading “Jihad and Jesus”
Jesus in the Qur’an
Just after commemorating 9/11, I received this email from a concerned Christian: Jim, I see much error in your theology based on what I read on your Q and A and blog. I guess the question is do you focus on peace making or true repentance leading to salvation? I also am concerned by yourContinue reading “Jesus in the Qur’an”
What do Muslims Believe?
An American friend recently told me that he had discovered there were some Muslim families in his apartment complex. But he hesitated to approach them, not knowing how they would respond. He assumed if he understood what Muslims believe first, it would help him to make friends. My friend’s desire is understandable, but may notContinue reading “What do Muslims Believe?”
My Response to SOMEONE HAS TO DIE — by “Grace”
JIM’S BOOK BROUGHT HEALING TO MY HEART OVER MEMORIES OF MY CHILDHOOD IN THE MIDDLE EAST When I read “Someone Has to Die,” I couldn’t put it down. I read it till about 4:30 in the morning till I finished. It was well-written, fast-paced, action-packed, emotionally rich, and relationally challenging. It reminded me of someContinue reading “My Response to SOMEONE HAS TO DIE — by “Grace””
Peacemaker of the World
One of my favorite descriptions of Jesus in the Bible comes from Micah chapter 5. Many Christians hear the beginning of this passage read at Christmas foretelling Jesus’ birth: “But you, Bethlehem…from you will come the leader who will shepherd-rule Israel…” But if you read in the Message translation, verses 2-4 end with the shepherd-rulerContinue reading “Peacemaker of the World”
Jim Baton 