Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

In this course we will consider Christianity’s encounter with Islam, from the Islamic conquests of the 7th century to the internet age. The first section of the course is historical. We will examine how various historical contexts have affected the Christian understanding of Muslims and Islam, from the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad to the current violence in the Middle East. The second section of the course is systematic. How are Christians today to respond to Islam, in light of recent world events and recent Church teaching? In addressing this question, we will analyze primary theological sources that express a range of responses, from pluralism to dialogue to evangelism. Students in this class will be introduced to the Qur’an, to the life of Muhammad, to the difference between Sunni and Shi’ite Islam, to Church teaching on Christianity’s relationship with Islam, and to trends in the theology of religions. Students will also study the various currents of Muslim thought on Christianity in the classical and contemporary periods. NO BACKGROUND IN ISLAM IS NECESSARY FOR THIS COURSE.