Abstract:
The relationship between Christianity and Islam from the perspective of a willingness
to embrace them is described in this chapter. Over the last decade, there has been an
intensified interest in developing a thorough theological framework for how Christians
and Muslims can relate to one another. This interest has grown in part as a result of an
upsurge of militant extremism in recent years which has resulted in reactionary responses
on a global scale. This has spiked fears, suspicions and uncertainties, leading to violent
actions and retaliations. Furthermore, it has led some to claim that the future of the world
depends on whether we will be able to develop a framework on how the two largest
religions in the world can coexist. This research presents an analysis of the history of
Christian-Muslim relations to understand the nature of the conflict. A theological
motivation is developed for why Christians need to become involved with Muslim
interfaith dialogue to promote peace and justice, whilst respectfully creating room for
one another to coexist. Churches and missions have a duty to remember their calling to
service, reconciliation, peacemaking, evangelism and dialogue. Christians worldwide
have a task to educate people on relations with Islam, to teach the forgiveness of sins and
to reach out in love to Muslims in word and deed as the bearers of the gospel. This
attitude of reaching out is encapsulated in the expression ‘a willingness to embrace’.
