Post 17

Only from comparing and contrasting the Qur'an to the New Testament will a person be able to see that these two books are similar yet also completely different at the same time. Through the group activity in class, I could tell that some of my colleagues were having more of an open mind for other religions and a greater respect toward other religions customs.

One thing that they both have in common, is the confession that Jesus Christ was only a messenger, and not God. As evident from the scriptures John 17:3 ‘This is eternal life, so that you may know there is one true God, and Jesus Christ, who Thou has sent.’ and Holy Quran 4:157 ‘That they said (in boast), “We killed Christ Jesus the son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah,”.

The New Testament describes the spiritual connection of those who accept salvation on the basis of faith in Christ. While also discussing God's undeserved favor toward sinners (Ephesians 2:8&9). Salvation is thought to be assured in this life and finally actualized in the next life (John 5:24). While the Quran seems to be missing in the grace department, aside from some references of God being gracious. For Muhammad, salvation is strictly a "quid pro quo."  meaning that if you're "good" you might make it to see Paradise, depending on your faithfulness and if Allah thinks you measure up (Surah 7:42,43; 40:40; 39:73; 43:73).