Michael Nazir-Ali

In this typically erudite book Nazir-Ali examines the Christian understanding of the uniqueness of Christ particularly in the presence of Judaism, Hinduism and Islam. He reflects on the Christian basis of the Enlightenment values found in western societies and points to Christ as their well-spring. Civic pluralism, evident in such ambiguous terms as multifaith and interfaith, is inevitable and not undesirable. Theological pluralism, however, is another matter and is to be seriously questioned. Nothing good comes from fudging" important issues and Christian distinctiveness is to be maintained. He goes on to explore the nature, work and lordship of Christ in scripture and considers how this affects the relationship of the Christian faith to other religions, especially in its evangelistic mission. The book finishes with a brief reflection on the Homogeneous Unit Principle, contextualization and the extent to which a follower of Christ can remain within their own culture. Whilst sympathetic to some newer missiological thinking, he is particularly concerned for a sound ecclesiology and an integrity that would not look like deception to Muslims and thus "make the apostasy worse". Such "fads" will not further the enduring "missionary task of the Church"."… (meer)

This is a very helpful, basic introduction to thinking about the place of Islam in the modern world. It was written shortly after 9/11 as an informal conversation answering questions people were - and still are - asking about Islam. Nazir-Ali describes Islam fairly and uncritically from a Muslim viewpoint. Whilst sketchily covering the basics of the origins, beliefs and practices of Islam, he stresses the great diversity and variation within the Muslim world and its history. In answer to some of the controversial, difficult questions he gives measured, balanced responses that look to break down misunderstanding and reduce fear. The answer to Islamophobia is after all education, education, education" - on both sides. Whilst extremist Islamic terrorism may be here to stay and needs to be dealt with, its causes are to be found in specific injustices in various parts of the world to which solutions should be sought whilst supporting the voice of moderate Muslims. In all this Nazir-Ali is very deliberate in being non-sensational in his arguments. In short, this book does what it says on the cover: it encourages Christians to understand their Muslim neighbours. "… (meer)