A word to my Muslim neighbors

Around the world, violent protests have broken out in response to an anti-Muslim video filmed in the United States by people who profess to be Christians. A recent article in the Astoria Times describes the way that thoughtful Muslims in Queens, though deeply grieved by the video, are denouncing the violent way other Muslims have responded to it.

It seems to me that Christians around the world should also be speaking out to denounce this video. So, as a pastor of a Christian church in a community with many Muslim residents, I would like to say something to my Muslim neighbors. (Read more.)

I am profoundly saddened to think that a video as offensive and hateful as the one in question should in any way be linked with the name of my Savior Jesus Christ. The people who produced this video reportedly claim to be Christians, but I want you to know that their behavior is completely contrary to the teachings of Christ.

Jesus told us, “And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” (Luke 6:31) Christians, like everyone else, want others to treat us and our beliefs with respect. Therefore, if we are following the teaching of our Savior, we should show honor and respect toward those whose beliefs differ from ours. This includes you, our Muslim neighbors.

As people who have come to know God’s mercy through Christ, we believe that Jesus is the only one who can bring people forgiveness and peace with God. The desire of our heart is to explain the love of Jesus to you. Yet one of our founding apostles, Peter, instructed us to explain our faith to others only in an attitude of gentleness and respect. (1 Peter 3:15) As Christians, we are never permitted to ridicule the beliefs of others or to dishonor their traditions.

So please know that thousands of Christians around the world, like me, share your outrage at the video that was produced. I am deeply saddened that it was made, especially because I fear that it will create one more unnecessary barrier between you and the love God has for you in Jesus.