19th March, 2004

TONY TOWNSEND on a book he says gives a refreshing and timely perspective on Islam...

Stuart Robinson, Mosques & Miracles, City Harvest Publications

The senior pastor at Crossway Baptist Church in Melbourne, Dr Stuart Robinson has written a very informative and in-depth book examining the growing religion of Islam.

According to Dr Robinson, his book “seeks to move more readers from ignorance or antipathy to an appreciation of what has happened and is happening on a vast scale, why this is so, and especially to encourage by recording what God is doing".

Dr Robinson has spent time ministering among those of the Muslim faith so he is able to speak with authority about the subject of Islam.

He provides very detailed information on the historical roots of Islam, its fundamental beliefs and practices, and its rapid development and expansion, especially the inroads it is having into the West. Refreshingly though, the material in the book is presented in a manner that is both non-reactive and not excessively alarmist.

Dr Robinson does, however, write with a sense of urgency and aims to awaken our understanding of the Islamic faith which can often be based on misunderstandings or generalizations. He shares how the Christian can respond to the rise of Islam by helping the reader to view the Muslim through the eyes of God and challenging Christians to see these times as an opportunity to share the love of Christ among the Muslim people. Specific information is given on how the church can be more effective in cross-cultural mission.

The book also contains a useful glossary of Islamic terms, numerous quotes from those well-versed in the Islamic faith (both Muslim and non-Muslim) and a handy Bible study guide designed to effectively engage the Muslim concerning the claims of Christianity.

Simply put, it is a timely book with a refreshing and clear perspective on Islam.