Can Christians read biblical meaning into qur'ānic texts? Does this violate the intent of those passages? What about making positive reference to the Qur'ān in the context of an evangelistic presentation or defense of biblical doctrines? Does this imply that Christians accept the Muslim scripture as inspired? What about Christians who reside in the world of Islam and write their theology in the language of the Qur'ān--Arabic? Is it legitimate for them to use the Qur'ān in their explanations of the Christian faith? This book explores these questions and offers a biblically, theologically, and historically informed response. For years evangelical Christians seeking answers to questions like these have turned to the history of Protestant Christian interaction with Muslim peoples. Few are aware of the cultural, intellectual, and theological achievements of Middle Eastern Christians who have resided in the world of Islam for fourteen centuries. Their works are a treasure-trove of riches for those investigating contemporary theological and missiological questions such as the apologetic use of the Qur'ān. ""In Christian Exegesis of the Qur'an, Scott Bridger acquaints the English-speaking portion of modern scholarship of Islam with selected instances, early and contemporary, of principles for use of the Qur'an theologically and apologetically to carry forward Arabic-speaking Christians' witness to the risen Christ. This is a new required reading for all Christians who would understand and share Jesus Christ with Muslims."" --Michael H. Edens, Professor of Theology and Islamic Studies, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, New Orleans, LA ""Scott Bridger's Christian Exegesis of the Qur'an is a fascinating book written at the intersection of Christian theology, apologetics, and Islamic studies. The book aims to help Westerners understand and take seriously the issues that Christians are wrestling with in predominantly Muslim contexts. It will be controversial because the questions posed challenge the normativity of our Western theological frameworks. It will be helpful because there is no other book like it. Highly recommended."" --Bruce Ashford, Associate Professor of Theology & Culture, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, NC ""Christian Exegesis of the Qur'an is a rare blend of academic acumen seasoned with practical applicative wisdom. Bridger brings years of linguistic, cultural, and social engagement of Arabic-speaking peoples to bear on the vital subjects related to Christian cross-cultural communication. This piece contributes the often neglected perspectives of Arabic-speaking Christians regarding the Qur'an from both medieval and modern times. Anyone studying Islamic peoples will benefit from this work."" --Keith Eitel, Professor of Missions & World Christian Studies, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, TX J. Scott Bridger is Director of the Jenkins Center for the Christian Understanding of Islam and Assistant Professor of World Religions and Islamic Studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He and his family spent twelve years working and studying in the Middle East. He and his wife, Miriam, have five children and reside in Louisville.

This groundbreaking work showcases a new approach for reaching new religious movements, cults, and sects. Countless new religious movements (NRMs) have sprung up across the United States and around the world in the last century. The many scholars and pastors contributing to this book have found that the best way to approach these groups is not to point out Biblical heresies and doctrinal aberrations, but instead to view NRMs as mission fields, much like we view foreign people groups. The authors of this volume demonstrate that the gospel needs to be contextualized for NRMs and that evangelists will want to be incarnational in their approaches. Using historical accounts and biblical basis, these top missiologists present their methodology and practical advice for reaching out to groups such as the Latter-day Saints, New Age, New Spirituality, Wicca, Mother Goddess, and Satanism.

Cutting-edge scholarship

Showcases some of the finest evangelical missiologists

Provides methods that are both biblical and practical

A pioneering work which argues for a more successful method of reaching followers of new religious movements

With all of the different religions, sects, denominations, and belief systems out there, it can be difficult to separate the facts from mere opinion, especially if one is relying solely on online sources which may or may not be vetted and which often have an ideological or political slant to them. How can we truly understand if we cannot even be sure we are getting the facts straight?

In this comprehensive resource, more than 75 evangelical scholars offer a thoroughly researched guide to Christianity, other world religions, and alternative religious views, including entries on movements, theological terms, and major historical figures. Perfect for pastors, students, and anyone who wants ready access to information on today's religious landscape.

The 2013 Outreach Magazine Resource of the Year in Global Outreach! In The Future of the Global Church, Patrick Johnstone, author of six editions of the phenomenal prayer guide, Operation World, draws on his fifty years experience to challenge us with his bold vision of the global Christian church. The Future of the Global Church weaves together the strands of history, demographics and religion to present a breathtaking, full-color graphical and textual overview of the past, present and possible future of the church around the world. Through a thought-provoking glimpse into likely scenarios humankind may face in the next 40 years, The Future of the Global Church identifies significant trends that are rarely or never addressed by today's media. The Future of the Global Church highlights the impact of evangelical Christianity over the past two centuries, as well as the astonishing growth of Evangelicalism over the past half century. Johnstone focuses clearly on the unfinished task of world evangelization, with a special emphasis on the world's 12,000 people groups--especially those that have had least exposure to the gospel. Inside this work, you will find: Data and extrapolations that highlight likely scenarios for evangelical Christian ministry in the coming four decades Interpreted overviews of the worldwide impact of the first 20 centuries of Christianity Comparisons of the impact of Christianity with those of other world religions Summaries of the past, present and probable future contributions of the different streams of Christianity This book examines trends that will have a major impact on the course of world events for a generation to come. God is in control--He holds the future in His hands--yet invites us to be His coworkers. How effective are you and your church or your organization as participants in His plan for the peoples of the world?