Burning of the Koran?

Rev. Terry Jones has boldly proclaimed that he will be burn the Koran on September 11. You can read his full story here.

In recent days politicians, generals and various religious leaders have all come out against this action. The Vatican has announced its displeasure towards this action and many churches in the United States have decided to hold joint-religious services on that day in protest of Rev. Jones actions.

There are two errors I see here.

First, those trying to counteract this action in the church by reading from the Koran in their services or having joint services across religious lines are acting foolishly. The Koran has nothing to offer followers of Jesus Christ. John, in his letter to the churches, reminds us not to participate with those who promote false teaching. Reading the Koran, in a church service, is unwise and un-biblical. Holding services with other groups further confuses the gospel. Islam (or other groups) are not one bad theology from being orthodox. They are not worshipping the same God - Allah is not YHWH.

But second, Rev. Jones actions are foolish and un-Christlike. He is not loving his neighbor as himself. He is not showing compassion to the un-learned. He is simply being provocative, perhaps trying to advance his own ministry.

Should we respond to Islam the way they have treated others, specifically the Christian church? No. We should not return evil for evil.

Should we become provocative by burning their "holy" book? This would be foolish and un-loving.

What should we do? We should show our Muslim neighbors what the gospel is and how it has changed us. How we no longer respond in our flesh through anger and petty political moves, but in love, compassion and grace to those who are lost. We should pray for them and share with them the gospel. No the gospel of the American dream. The gospel of salvation from sins through faith in Jesus Christ. That is what they need. That is what we should offer.