Image: Paul Itkin, Unsplash
Can a person find God in Islam?
I once heard a story of a Muslim Background Believer (MBB) who was being given a hard time by a group of Muslims.
He was not physically attacked, but they were strongly trying to persuade him to return to Islam and were using all the arguments they could think of.
Finally, after an hour or two, with some desperation they asked him:
“Are you saying that a person cannot find God in Islam?”
His answer was, I believe, extremely wise. He said:
“No, I am not saying that a person cannot find God in Islam, but I am saying that a person cannot find God, as Father, in Islam.”
He then quoted Jesus’ words in John 14:6:
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”
We live in a spiritual world, and the Holy Spirit is active in many different people and circumstances.
People find God in lots of ways. Sometimes through the beauty of creation: a lovely sunset, a stunning view, or the wonders of space through a telescope.
Or through an inspiring piece of music, or a beautiful poem. Through a selfless act of kindness or hospitality from someone who cannot afford it. Even through some aspects of other religious systems.
But, people can only know God, or find God as Father, through Jesus. There is no other way.