The Centrality of God’s Holiness in Christian Moral Standards
God’s holiness establishes divine moral standards that reflect His nature and are central to Christian teachings. These standards are significant because they create a clear distinction between the moral framework of Christianity and that of other faiths, such as Islam. When Muslims immigrate to Western countries, they bring with them a set of Islamic moral values, which differ from Christian principles. The issue at hand is not merely about social habits or principles—differences in these areas, even when contradictory, would not necessarily be a problem. The concern arises with deep moral values, which for a Christian are considered grave sins. As a result, actions that may be considered normal or acceptable in Islam can be seen as serious transgressions in Christianity.
Christian vs. Islamic Moral Frameworks: A Distinction of Values
The God of Israel, as revealed in the Old Testament, imposed moral laws on the Jewish people, and Jesus elevated these standards to their highest expression in the New Testament. In contrast, the moral code taught by Muhammad in Islam falls short of the divine standards outlined in Christianity. It sometimes struggles to distinguish between what is acceptable and what is sinful from a Christian perspective. If Muslims were to fully understand the depth and holiness of God’s standards as revealed in Christianity, they might see the moral shortcomings within Islam and recognize the errors in its ethical teachings.
The Western World’s Abandonment of Christian Moral Foundations
Unfortunately, many in the Western world have abandoned the moral values once rooted in their Christian heritage. As secularism has taken hold, societies have distanced themselves from God’s commandments, leaving them less able to comprehend or uphold the divine moral code that Christianity espouses. This departure from their spiritual foundations contributes to a misunderstanding of the moral principles that define Christian life.
The moral decline observed in the Western world cannot be attributed to Christianity itself. Historically, Western societies were deeply shaped by Christian moral values, evident in the presence of churches on nearly every street corner. Although these churches remain, many are now empty, symbolizing a departure from the values they once upheld. This beautiful Western world, once flourishing under Christian principles, is now facing moral decay largely due to a growing secularism and a rejection of God.
Islamic Practices in Contrast with Biblical Teachings
Building on this foundation, it’s important to explore specific differences in moral teachings among these faiths. For example, in Islam, marriage to young girls is permitted under certain conditions. This practice is legally accepted in some contexts, reflecting Islamic legal and social norms. In contrast, Judaism condemns such practices, historically resulting in severe punishments such as stoning. Even if individuals within the Christian faith were found practicing such immoral acts, Christian law firmly rejects these practices and calls for their excommunication. In contrast, Islam does not explicitly forbid such practices, as seen in Surah 65, verse 4 of the Qur’an.
Polygamy: From Old Traditions to Christ’s Higher Standard
Polygamy is another area of difference. In Islam, polygamy is traditionally allowed, and this was also practiced in ancient Judaism. However, Jesus introduced a higher standard in Christianity by teaching that marriage should be monogamous. He raised the moral bar by stating, “But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28). This teaching underscores how Jesus elevated moral expectations to a profound spiritual level.
Divorce: Permissibility in Islam vs. Enduring Commitment in Christianity
Divorce presents another significant divergence. In Islam, divorce is relatively accessible and accepted. Judaism permits divorce but with specific regulations. Christianity, however, maintains a stricter view on marriage. Jesus addressed this in Matthew 19:7-12, where He refers to Moses’ allowance for divorce due to the “hardness of your hearts” but emphasizes that “what God has joined together, let not man separate” (Matthew 19:6). Jesus highlighted that the divine intent for marriage was one of enduring commitment, reflecting God’s holy and unchanging moral standards.
Punishments for Immorality: Legalism in Islam vs. Redemption in Christianity
The concept of punishment for moral transgressions differs between Islam and Christianity. In Islam, certain severe actions, such as adultery or theft, can result in corporal punishment, including flogging or amputation, depending on the legal school of thought followed. Christianity, however, emphasizes forgiveness and redemption. Jesus’ teachings, particularly His response to the woman caught in adultery (John 8:7), highlight the importance of mercy over judgment: “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” The Christian focus is on reconciliation and the transformation of the heart, rather than the imposition of harsh legalistic penalties.
Interfaith Relations: Divergent Approaches in Christianity and Islam
The relationship between adherents of different religions is viewed from distinct perspectives in Christianity and Islam, reflecting differing approaches to moral and ethical interactions. In Islam, Sharia law primarily governs the conduct within the Muslim community. It sets out specific guidelines for behavior, religious observance, and social interactions among Muslims. However, the approach to those outside the Islamic community, often referred to as “non-believers” or “infidels,” can differ significantly. Islamic teachings provide various guidelines on how to interact with people of other faiths, ranging from respectful engagement to more restrictive measures, depending on the context and interpretation.
In contrast, Christian teachings emphasize universal moral principles that apply to all people, regardless of their faith. Jesus’ teachings are rooted in a universal ethic of love and compassion. For example, Jesus instructed His followers to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39) and to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). These commands underscore the Christian commitment to treating everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their religious affiliation.
The Dual Impact of Wrongdoing in Christian Ethics
Christian ethics maintain that wrongdoing extends beyond its impact on others; it also affects one’s own soul. Wrongdoing has a dual impact: it harms both the individual affected and the one who commits the act. Christians are called to uphold moral standards and act with integrity in all relationships, whether with fellow believers or people of other faiths. This approach emphasizes that ethical behavior is crucial not just in interactions within the Christian community but in all interactions, reflecting the belief that one’s actions influence both the well-being of others and one’s own spiritual state.
Summary: Broader Perspectives on Morality and Interfaith Relations
In summary, while Islamic moral laws are primarily concerned with conduct within the Muslim community and have varying guidelines for interactions with non-believers, Christian teachings advocate for a universal application of moral principles, emphasizing love, respect, and ethical behavior towards everyone, irrespective of their religious beliefs. This fundamental difference reflects broader views on morality and interfaith relations within these two traditions.