Key Similarities between Modern Christianity and Islam
Modern day Christianity and Islam have a lot in common. First, both religions can be described as monotheistic (Esposito, 2016). The two religions are monotheistic in the sense that both Christians and Muslims subscribe to the existence of only one sovereign God. Even though both religions have different ways of referring to their god, there is a common belief that the god in both scenarios created and sustains the universe (Esposito, 2016). Additionally, God in both religions is thought to be merciful, gracious as well as a righteous judge (Esposito, 2016). According to the doctrines of modern Christianity and Islam, God’s image is depicted as an infinite, unlimited, and omniscient being (Esposito, 2016).
Secondly, both religions believe in the existence of prophets and prophecies, angels, the judgment day, and heaven and hell (Esposito, 2016). Prophets such as Noah, Moses, Abraham and John the Baptist are mentioned in both religions. Both Christianity and Islam also subscribe to the prophetic works of these prophets. Angels in both Christianity and Islam are also both depicted as spiritual beings (Esposito, 2016).
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
Advancing the arguments above, both the Bible and the Quran talk of the spiritual conception and virgin birth of Jesus, advocate for the sovereignty of God and affirm on the resurrection and second coming of Jesus (Esposito, 2016). The Bible and the Quran indicate that the son of God will come to collect the righteous and lead them to eternity, and also to condemn the sinners to everlasting pain and suffering.
Why I chose to be a Muslim rather than taking the Christian route
I get so nervous every time I am presented with this question. It was a tough call that I had to make to become a Muslim despite of my strong Christian background. However, I felt that Islam was my perfect religion as it conforms to my perceptions about religion. First, I always had questions about God existing in three different entities as Christians believe. I also had my doubts on the necessity of conducting human sacrifices so that our sins could be forgiven. At this point, I always asked myself whether it was really necessary for God to sacrifice Jesus so that our sins are forgiven. I needed a religion that could comfort me whenever I was confronted by these tough questions. Luckily, my source of comfort was not too far away from me. Islam puts it across that God exists in one entity, as a single supreme being. Allah also does not have to sacrifice anybody so that we are redeemed from our sins. I also found the teachings of the Quran appealing to my soul. Whenever we ask Allah for forgiveness, it is granted to us. In addition, unlike Christianity, Islam presents its believers with differing interpretations of faith and various means of observing it.
What my family had to say about my new religion
At first, my family was not supportive of my decision to change from Christianity to Islam. As I mentioned before, my family has a long Christian background. I was brought up in this Christian setup and I can say I loved going to Church. The opposition from my family was mainly based on the many misconceptions they have regarding Islam, Muslims to be specific. My family also thought that my decision to pursue a different line of religion came too early and that I was not mature enough to make such a huge call. However after explaining the reasons behind my decision and pushed by their desire to see me stay happy, my family finally came into terms with my decision and have remained supportive ever since. I have been able to grow in my new religion ever since. I believe that visiting the Holy City of Mecca someday will help accelerate my spiritual growth.
Some of the reasons why Islam speaks to me
Islam speaks to me in a number of ways. First, in Islam I finally found answers to some of the questions I had about religion. I would occasionally feel helpless and hopeless whenever I was confronted with certain questions that I needed answers for, but some of which, I could not ask the priest or even my parents.
In additional, I also find the teachings of the Quran appropriate and applicable to the kind of person I want to grow up into. The Quran offers lessons on teaching on sharing, wealth, and punishment of sins. I have always believed that as humans, we should live decent lives. We should never be too rich and yet our immediate neighbor occasionally goes without food. Humans should also do to others what they would be okay and comfortable with if they were to be on the receiving end. The Quran talks about according sins the same magnitude of punishment.
Finally, I believe Islam’s relation to politics and society is exceptional both in theory and in practice. Islam plays a major role in both governance and law as well. I wanted a religion that offered answers to all life problems. Islam also has a strong stance prohibiting secularization.
What a typical service at the Mosque is like on a Worship day
Friday is always the main worshipping date for most Muslims. However, there are 34 other congregational prayers during the course of the week. A typical Friday service begins with the caller to prayer saying the Adhan or just simply, the call for prayer. Thereafter, the people already in the mosque have to wait for between 10 and 15 minutes after the call to prayer for the rest of the worshippers to arrive. After arrival of the rest of the congregation, there is always an allowance for an optional prayer. Thereafter, the Imam gives the Friday sermon lasting for about 30 minutes. The sermon is followed by the Friday prayer, also led by the Imam. Following completion of the prayer, the congregation says “Salam” to the left and to the right and the worship day comes to an end at this point. However, the worshippers are allowed to declare their solicitations minutes after conclusion of the prayers.
Reference
Esposito, J.L. (2016). How is Islam similar to Christianity and Judaism? Islam City. Retrieved from https://www.islamicity.org/4654/how-is-islam-similar-to-christianity-and-judaism/ .
