Dos and Don'ts
In an article titled "Reaching our Muslim Neighbors," Stewart writes that building bridges to Muslims begins with prayer and a sense of utter dependence upon God's Holy Spirit.

After that, "hospitality is the key to most Muslim hearts," Stewart writes. "Do not hesitate to call and ask to visit them. In most cases this will please them and make them feel honored. Be sure to take a gift, such as flowers or a basket of fruit, for this is their love language."

"When they come to your home be sure to stand up as they enter and introduce them to your whole family," he says. "Offer them something to drink such as hot tea or a soft drink; even if they refuse bring it anyway. If you choose to serve food, avoid all pork products."

In conversation, ask a lot of questions and make few statements at the beginning, Marlowe suggests. "We must get to the core of their worldview, but that takes time."

Be careful not to challenge their faith. Stewart says that people from shame-based cultures easily wound and may quickly become defensive.

On the other hand, Muslims respect genuine faith, so look for low-threat ways to introduce them to the things of God. Stewart suggests praying for the Muslim family in your prayer before meals; giving them a copy of the Scripture in their language and ordering a copy of the JESUS Film in their language.

Although Muslims take great pride in defending Islam -- at least in public -- privately many are interested in Christianity. "I have found that every time you break the friendship barrier with a Muslim and you sit in their home or they come to your home, and you start talking heart-to-heart, you are going to find a lot of questions about Islam and much interest in Christianity," Stewart says.

A Christian must be ready to answer those questions with the testimony of his life that displays a love for Christ through a love for his Muslim neighbor. An Afghani proverb says, "If you pressure me I will not follow you to heaven, however, if you are kind and respectful to me I will follow you anywhere -- even to hell."

Learn More About Ministry to Muslims in America

Reaching our Muslim Neighbors

Why Should Christians Love Muslims?
Christian Missions to Islam website 

The Dark Side of Islam by R.C. Sproul and Abdul Saleeb (Crossway Books, 2003)

Rusty Benson, a regular contributor to AgapePress, is associate editor of AFA Journal, a monthly publication of the American Family Association.  This article appeared in the July 2004 issue. Copyright 2004  AgapePress.