The Jewel of the Middle East…Understanding Islam

With the rapid rise of Muslim presence throughout Europe and the United States, western Christians can no longer afford to be ignorant of Islam and the Islamic worldview.

“If Christians are going to have any hope of effectively responding to Islam with the Gospel of Jesus,” CLC Academic Dean, Mark Mathewson claims, “an accurate and charitable under- standing of Islam is necessary.”
 
With this in mind, the Christian Leadership College welcomes Dr. Mateen Elass, Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Edmond, Oklahoma, to present a lecture and seminar on Islam, October 13-15. Dr. Elass holds a Ph.D. in New Testament from the University of Durham (UK), an M.Div. and M.A. from Fuller Seminary, and a B.A. from Stanford University.

Born in New Haven, Connecticut to a Muslim family, Mateen lived his childhood in Saudi Arabia. His perspective on Islam is not that of many who mischaracterize Islam and who hate Muslims. It is one of charity and understanding. In Understanding the Koran, Mateen reminds Christians that, “We must become active ambassadors of Christ’s love, even toward those who declare themselves sworn enemies of the cross. Though some in the Muslim world may call for jihad against all infidels, we are to act according to the mandate of our Master and so, to love Muslims along with all other neighbors.”

From his love for Muslims, Mateen sees the rise of Muslim presence in the United States as an opportunity. “The present influx of Muslim immigrants provides the American church with wonderful opportunities for reaching people. Instead of responding with fear, we should find joy and excitement in the fact that God has brought the mission field into our backyard.”

Dr. Elass points out that jewels have always been prized by Middle Easterners, stating, “If you ask an Arab Muslim what comprises the jewels of his faith, you will probably hear at least three responses, depending on the context: Muhammad, the Qu’ran, or Jerusalem. Ask a Christian the same question and the answer will be decidedly different.” The CLC invites you to take advantage of the opportunity to explore with Dr. Elass the principal reasons for this difference and in the process, highlight the unique claims of these two world faiths.

REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED FOR THE PUBLIC LECTURE ,BUT IS RECOMMENDED FOR THE SEMINAR COURSE.

The Jewel of the Middle East
Monday, October 13 | 7:30 p.m.
Upper Room – D-300
***Free Event***

Understanding Islam Seminar Course
October 13-15 | 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | D-102
Tuition and book fees apply
Register online at www.visitclc.com or aschmitt@clcnebraska.com.