This blog concludes our series on the Five Big Identity Questions for MBBs (Muslim background believers in Christ). In grappling with these questions, MBBs will draw closer to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Here is a graphic overview of the 5 questions we have addressed in this blog series:
Links to the previous blogs in this series:
5. Who are They?
The final question is another question discussed about MBBs: “Who are they?” This question usually arises among family, friends, and community members. These last two questions connect, naturally. Again, conspiracy theories will arise: “Is this a cult?” “Is this a spy ring?” “Are they doing this for immigration purposes?”
Christians and Christianity
Family and friends will evaluate the spiritual vitality of MBBs. Though contexts vary greatly, the general, historical perception of Muslims toward Christianity is that it is a weak, inferior religion that has been superseded by Islam. Yet, this evaluation does not occur in a vacuum. Muslims continually evaluate Islam and other Muslims. Many of these Islamic movements present themselves as unappealing. Christians and Christianity are looking more viable over time. Though it is not necessary for MBBs to specifically use the identifier “Christian” or “Masihi,” most are choosing to do so.
While Islam could never accept the religion of Christians as an equal, Muslims in many places are beginning to view Christianity more favorably. MBBs who identify with Christ and the Body of Christ have the opportunity to glorify the Lord Jesus through their words, deeds, love, and longsuffering. MBBs, by clinging close to Christ, can improve and enhance the perspective Muslims hold of Christians. As friends, family, and the Muslim community discuss among themselves what to make of the MBBs, there is opportunity for them also to see Jesus Christ exalted and worshipped by His Body.
Family Relationships
The relationship of MBBs to their families and close friends will inevitably be altered by the MBBs’ conversion to Christ. Every relationship is unique. The range of possible relationships may be represented by a continuum. On one end, a complete rupture may occur, either in the short-term or long-term. On the other end, the relationship may be positive to the point that the Gospel can be observed to be flowing through those relationships. In other cases, the parties may eventually arrive at a more middling equilibrium, what I describe as an “uneasy peace.” In this case, the family will try to maintain a relationship while overtly indicating they are not interested in pursuing the path to Christ. Sometimes this is the best relationship an MBB can manage to retain. Relationships are dynamic and, therefore, subject to evolution.
Ruptured Relationship ----- The Uneasy Peace ----- Gospel Flowing in Relationship
Conclusion
We live at a wonderful time in history. The prayers and labors of many on behalf of Muslim souls are bearing fruit. This includes those who are part of the Jumaa Prayer Fellowship.
God himself is challenging Islam. The violent spirit of Islam itself seems to have been “thrown down” to the earth in our day. Now is the time for Muslims to encounter the real Jesus, not a diminished Jesus.
New believers in Christ from a Muslim background are currently developing spiritual identity. This is seen in forging answers to the questions:
“Who is Jesus?”
“Who am I?” and
“Who are we?”
Friends are family are invited into this process as they ask:
“Who are you?”
“Who is he/she?”
“Who are they?”
MBBs need to develop a sincere, Christo-centric identity, both at the individual and collective level. While short-term difficulties almost always ensue in these areas, permanent non-resolution of identity issues will inevitably result in spiritual collapse. The same result attends a “Christian-Muslim” identity bifurcation, as well as permanent “secret believerism.” While MBBs cannot automatically make their friends and family become interested in the gospel, we have a part to play which we cannot shirk.
For those serving MBBs, prayer, patience, and good examples are needed. Yet it is humble missionaries and witnesses for Christ, serving in an imperfect world, who have brought the message of the perfect Savior to a needy Muslim world. For this, MBBs are truly thankful.
Let us go forward toward Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit!
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