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Fernando, who works with Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims, fears that American Christians, after the September 11 attacks, are tempted to hate Muslims and risk fixating on security issues. "What is the priority? Evangelism or security? I think the priority is evangelism. Whatever it takes for us to bring the Muslim to Christ. That is our agenda."

Terrorism poses a legitimate national security threat and may require our nation and its allies to wage war on Iraq. But this should never distract Christians from their unique calling. "The gospel is something that stands by itself," Fernando says. "It's the answer of the Creator of the world for the problem of this world."

That means, among other things, weighing our public statements about Islam so that the door of the gospel is never shut because Muslims think we're intolerant or hostile.

It also might mean reclaiming common ground with Muslims. After all, before 9/11, Muslims were one of our few international allies in fighting the materialism and decadence that tear at the fabric of families. Is it possible for Muslims and Christians to encounter each other through their families, generating new relationships? The Family to Family program of Venture International, a Christian ministry to the Middle East and Asia, is bold enough to attempt an answer. So far, the program has successfully paired Christian families with more than 450 Muslim and Christian families in the Middle East and Central Asia, providing shelter, education, and employment training.

In short, if we hope to demonstrate the love and saving power of Christ to Muslims, we're going to have to cease the name-calling and reach out in love—yes, especially to those who in some respects now are considered our "enemies."

Copyright © 2002 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

Previous Christianity Today articles on Islam and evangelism to Muslims include:

Doors into IslamSeptember 11 has only intensified the dangers and rewards of Muslim evangelism. (Aug. 19, 2002)

Outpaced by Islam?The Muslim challenge is growing faster than our Christian outreach. (Feb. 4, 2002)

Letter from a Muslim SeekerChristians aren't the only ones asking 'Why?' after September's tragedy. (Dec. 5, 2001)

Is the God of Muhammad the Father of Jesus?The answer to this question reveals the heart of our faith. (Feb. 1, 2002)

Does God Hear Muslim's Prayers?We must remember that God does not deal with theologies; he deals with persons. (Feb. 1, 2002)

Is Islam a Religion of Peace?The controversy reveals a struggle for the soul of Islam. (Dec. 28, 2000)

A Many Splintered ThingThough Muslims shared allegiance to Muhammad and to the Qur'an, Islam faced division as soon as the prophet died. (Dec. 28, 2000)

CT coverage of controversial comments on Islam include:

Jesus FreakFranklin Graham remains unashamed of the Name, despite public criticism. No generic prayers for him. (Dec. 2, 2002)

Riots, Condemnation, Fatwa, and Apology Follow Falwell's CBS CommentsPresident of the All India Christian Council: "I prayed that the broadcast would not reach India." (Oct. 17, 2002)

Give Franklin Graham Some Slack—and Some CreditThe evangelist shouldn't be defined by his opposition to Islam. (August 23, 2002)

Southern Baptists Boot Gay ProtestersMessengers at St. Louis convention pick Prestonwood's Jack Graham as new leader. (June 13, 2002)

In 2000, Christianity Today focused on Muslim-Christian relations in a series by Wendy Murray Zoba. Articles included:

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December 9 2002, Vol. 46, No. 13