How to reach Muslims for Jesus during times of unrest

As we are enjoying the season of summer, many people are travelling, spending time outside, and meeting new people. No matter where we go, let us use every opportunity to plant seeds of the gospel in the hearts of the Muslims God puts in our paths.

Even in times of uncertainty or unrest, there are many opportunities to share the gospel with Muslims. Wars and world conflicts impact Muslims as well, planting deep spiritual questions in their hearts. Christians should use these times to plant seeds and boldly proclaim the gospel!

When we obediently ask the Lord to use us as witnesses to reach Muslims for Jesus, the Holy Spirit will guide us and put the right words in our mouths.

Remember these things when you are evangelizing to Muslims:

1. Muslims (especially immigrants) expect you to initiate a conversation as the host in America

Hospitality is a core value for Muslims, and if they are new to this country or even your neighborhood, they will see your relationship through a lens of host-guest relationships. This means the responsibility to reach out and initiate conversations is on you as the “host.”

2. A Muslim will not be offended if you ask about their beliefs

American culture teaches us to be very private about our beliefs to avoid offending someone, but Muslims are vocal about their beliefs; therefore, you can be vocal about yours without offending them! They are used to being very up front and sometimes blunt about what they believe and why.

3. Your Muslim friend will be interested in getting to know you when you show authentic care

A Muslim friend will be guarded until they find out you are not only friends with them to “convert” them, but rather because you truly care to know them. If you are starting a relationship, you don’t have to dive right into spiritual conversations – treat them like any other new friend!

4. You are not responsible for “saving” others, but to point them to the Savior

This reminder should take a lot of pressure off your shoulders. You are not in charge of saving anyone, nor are you able to! Jesus commands us to share the gospel, and the work of changing someone’s heart is in the Holy Spirit’s hands.

5. You will be surprised how much in common you have with Muslims when you start asking questions about values and family life

If you want help with questions to ask Muslim friends about their family or life, check out our “practical evangelism” section.

6. Muslims love stories. Share your own life story and testimony, or stories from the Bible that connect with your conversation

There is a reason Jesus answered most questions asked of Him with stories and parables. Stories connect people, and they are one of the easiest ways to share what is valuable to us with others. If you haven’t practiced sharing your testimony, here is a guide to get you started.

7. Try to leave every Muslim you meet with a link to watch the Jesus film in their own language. Keep this link handy to look up their language: watchjesusfilm.com

This film introduces Muslims to the person of Jesus and His life that transforms their perspective. Muslims already have preconceived ideas about Jesus because of what they hear in the Quran, but this film helps introduce them to the true character of Christ.

8. When there is a language barrier, try to use your phone for instant translation

There are many great tools available now that break down the language barrier. It is easiest if you keep one handy on your phone so that you are always prepared when the need arises.

How do I talk to my Muslim friend about so much unrest in the Middle East?

The tension between many countries and groups in the Middle East is not something to ignore. What if a Muslim asks: “What do you think about the conflict in the Middle East?”

Simply affirm that:

• God, the Creator, loves all people and wills no one to die in separation from Him, including you and me

• This world will always have strife and wars because we have a sinful nature

• Jesus promised to give us His peace that cannot be shaken by our circumstances. Do you want to know about this different kind of peace?

Prayer for reaching Muslims for Jesus

Dear Lord, the world wants me to focus on all of the unrest, but I choose to focus on You and Your Kingdom. Please use me to be a light in the world to reach muslims for Jesus and share Your love with my Muslim friends. Amen.