Imagine defeating Satan. Is that really possible? Our personal salvation story, no matter how imperfect the presentation is, has power to it but the story of the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, has even more power. Huge power!
Yousef listened to the story of the cross for the first time. Shocked, he asked me, “Joy, who on earth would have made up a story like that?” “God did,” I replied. The majority of Muslims have never actually heard the story nor understand the meaning of it. The symbol of the cross is repugnant to many of them. When Bushra was a little girl in Morocco she often walked past a church with a cross on it. She would throw stones at the church because she was taught to hate the cross but she did not know why. Later in life, when she heard the story, she embraced the cross with reverence and acceptance. Omar, from Saudi Arabia, was visiting in our home when we pointed out the cross on the church across the street. He pulled back in horror when his eyes noticed it. But when we told him the story he was dumbfounded.
Satan does not want the story of the cross to be heard by anyone. When we declare it he is defeated. There is nothing more powerful in heaven or earth than the blood of Jesus, the Lamb of God, who is the atoning sacrifice for our sins. As we need to know how to share our own story, likewise we need to know a few tips on how to share the story of the Lamb of God with Muslims.
l. Know the contents of the salvation story. What is it about? Where is it found? Who is the Savior? A Savior from what? Where do you and your Muslim friend fit in? They might not read the Bible because of fear or being illiterate. If so, you will need to tell them the story. Keep it simple and brief.
2. Feel comfortable sharing the story of the Savior in segments, like you might with your own story. A little bit now, a little bit later, over and over. Always check to see if they understand certain words or concepts. Remember you are telling a story, not making a sales transaction. Leave the results to God.
3. Hey, let's not be mousy in sharing. They might not agree but they do admire bold and confident people. The Holy Spirit empowers us to witness. It is not as important to know a lot about the Qur’an or Islam as to know our Savior and the Bible well. Expect a reaction. If there is no reaction, good or bad, that probably means the story was not understood. Just keep trying. Do not give up.
4. Stay focused when sharing the story of the Lamb of God. Satan will for sure attempt to bring distractions. You will know how much your Muslim friend can digest at one sitting. You can pick up the story again at another time where you left off. You will need to repeat the story many times. Rarely is it understood in one hearing.
I love to tell the story of Jesus. Enjoy every opportunity to do so. When our story and the story of our Savior are weaved together it will prove to be dynamite.
Dear heavenly Father, please help me to know how to put the salvation story together. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
