Book Review: Answering Jihad ~ A Better Way Forward by Nabeel Qureshi

1 Peter 3:15(MSG) 

Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you’re living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy.

OVERVIEW:

This book provides a look into the Islamic
religion and lends valuable insight
into some very perplexing questions. 

From New York Times bestselling author and former Muslim Nabeel Qureshi comes this personal, challenging, and respectful answer to the many questions surrounding jihad, the rise of ISIS, and Islamic terrorism.

San Bernardino was the most lethal terror attack on American soil since 9/11, and it came on the heels of a coordinated assault on Paris. There is no question that innocents were slaughtered in the name of Allah and in the way of jihad, but do the terrorists’ actions actually reflect the religion of Islam? The answer to this question is more pressing than ever, as waves of Muslim refugees arrive in the West seeking shelter from the violent ideology of ISIS.

Setting aside speculations and competing voices, what really is jihad? How are we to understand jihad in relation to our Muslim neighbors and friends? Why is there such a surge of Islamist terrorism in the world today, and how are we to respond?

In Answering Jihad, bestselling author Nabeel Qureshi (Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus) answers these questions from the perspective of a former Muslim who is deeply concerned for both his Muslim family and his American homeland.

MY PERSONAL REVIEW:

I chose to read, Answering Jihad A Better Way Forward by Nabeel Qureshi to gain insight and understanding into the Islamic religion and how it affects the citizens of the United States of America. I was not disappointed. This book is written for a very broad audience, as the author clearly states, and as such it is not meant to be a comprehensive study into the complexities of the Islamic religion, but rather to provide the reader with a sketch of the current climate within our nation as it relates to Muslims. This book falls within the Christian genre, but it is an important read for Christians and non-Christians alike.   

Dr. Nabeel Qureshi manages to deliver a courteously thoughtful work on a very intense and highly charged subject. As I pondered how to review this book, I immediately thought of the words in 1 Peter 3:15 : "Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you're living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy." Throughout the book, the author delivers answers for his choice to leave the Islamic religion and convert to Christianity. He communicates these answers so eloquently and also reveals a deep level of unquestionable authenticity. 

Answering Jihad provides a broad outline of the fundamental teachings of the Islamic religion according to the Quran. In a concise question and answer format, the flow of this book could not be any better. It uncovers that the "average American Muslim agrees that the Quran and hadith are the ultimate basis of their faith," but that "many have not critically read the traditions." The author, who was raised as a devout Muslim in the United States asserts that many Muslims throughout the world "would be surprised to find violent, offensive jihad shot through the foundations of Islam." The important fact that there are an expansive number of Islamic fundamental teachings and therefore wide variances of how Islam is practiced is a significant point to absorb as you digest the book.

Dr. Qureshi expresses his opinion that we should not be defining Islam as the "practice of Muslims", but rather Islam should be defined as the "teachings of Muhammad". This simple statement alone brings a lot of clarity to the confusion and chaos of terminology and generalizations that are thrown around on a daily basis within the varied media outlets. Keeping that in mind, he goes a step farther to explain that the personal and peaceful practice of some Muslims, does not mean that Islam is a religion of peace. In fact, those that are concerned by the "increasing frequency and scale of Islamist terrorism" need to comprehend that there is an Islamic reformation currently taking place and it is built upon the life of Muhammad (the named prophet of Islam) who was born in 570AD. It is an "attempt to raze centuries of traditions of various schools of Islamic thought and return to the canonical texts of the Quran and Muhammad's life." He shares that radical Muslim organizations are very clear that their goal is to reform Islam. Islam follows the Quran and the final chapter is the "the Disavowal", which deny any treaties of peace that came before it. It is also the final and most violent chapter "commanding Muslims to fight and subdue non-Muslims." 

Each chapter within this book, Answering Jihad ~A Better Way Forward provides so much information to the casual learner of this subject, that after reading it, I find myself with a plan to reread it. While Dr. Qureshi has written it for the "wider audience" (not history, theology and political majors...in other words), I still found myself feeling quite ignorant. His vast array of knowledge and references leaves my head spinning, but definitely in a good way....if that's possible.

This book is eye opening. The level of transparency and the potential for open dialogue that may be generated is immeasurable. His call to learn the truth about Islam and maintain compassion for Muslims through a life lived proactively rather than in a reactionary stance is clearly presented. This is one man's perspective, however the collection of data to support his stand is quite persuasive. At the very least Qureshi's invitation may pave the way for an increased awareness into our world's present state of affairs. Whether you agree or disagree with Nabeel Qureshi's conclusions, I can assure you that after reading this book, you will have a greater level of insight into the growing concerns surrounding terrorism in our time.

Dr. Qureshi is the author of three books: Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity (Zondervan, February 2014), Answering Jihad: A Better Way Forward (Zondervan, March 2016), and No God But One—Allah or Jesus (Zondervan, August 2016).

I would like to thank ZONDERVAN publishing through the BookLook Blogging program for this free review copy of Answering Jihad by Nabeel Qureshi. It was a privilege to read this book and provide an honest summary of my reading experience. I was not required to write a favorable review, but simply to give a genuine opinion.

I Thought Better Of It

Psalm 119:47-48(MSG)
I cherish Your commandments--oh, how I love them!  Relishing every fragment of Your counsel. 

It's so true!  This verse, I mean.  I do cherish the Word of God.  His words bring such comfort, clarity, confirmation and strength to any situation we find ourselves in.  The full counsel of God will find you wherever you are and minister sweetly to your soul. 

A great example of the way God uses His word to shape us and grow our confidence in Him happened the day after I wrote the previous post.  (Click here if you would like to read it and didn't get a chance to.)  I was reading along in my yearly Bible when I came to a few chapters in Ezekiel.  (Chapters 18-20).  If you have a few minutes, you should read this incredible prophet's dealings with the Israelites and his obedience to the Lord.  It will leave you refreshed, encouraged, and challenged all at the same time. 

There were several parts that jumped off the page at me, however, the portion that ended up confirming my previous reflections on choosing not to act on our feelings, was repeated by God through the spoken words of the prophet Ezekiel four different times in chapter 20. 

Here is what God said in response to a rebellious people who would not listen to the Lord's instruction about letting go of the vile things they were addicted to.

Ezekiel 20:8-10(MSG) 
I seriously considered inflicting my anger on them in force right there in Egypt.  Then I thought better of it.  I acted out of who I was, not by how I felt.  And I acted in a way that would evoke honor, not blasphemy, from the nations around them. 
(Italics my own.)

I was so encouraged by God's words in this passage.  He goes on to repeat a similar message three more times within this chapter.

Ezekiel 20:14-15(MSG)

Tropical Storm Debby appears angry as she begins to
unleash her fury in the Gulf of Mexico.

I seriously considered unleashing my anger on them right there in the desert.  But I thought better of it and acted out of who I was, not by what I felt, so that I might be honored and not blasphemed by the nations who had seen me bring them out.   (Italics my own.)

Ezekiel 20:21-22 (MSG)
"'But the children also rebelled against me.  They neither followed my statutes nor kept my laws for living upright and well.  And they desecrated my Sabbaths.  I seriously considered dumping my anger on them, right there in the desert.  But I thought better of it and acted out of who I was, not by what I felt, so that I might be honored and not blasphemed by the nations who had seen me bring them out.  (Italics my own.)

Ezekiel 20:44 (MSG)
"'But, dear Israel, you'll also realize that I am God when I respond to you out of who I am, not by what I feel about the evil lives you've lived, the corrupt history you've compiled...".  (Italics my own.)

To read these directions straight from God, gives me courage.  It helps me understand that the emotions I feel are first of all the way I was created.  I have been made in the image of God, so therefore, I too will have intense emotions.  What freedom to know that I am not a slave to those emotions.  I can respond in a manner that is different than how I may feel.  Why?  Because "the nations" are watching.  Who are the "nations"?  My children.  My spouse.  My neighbors.  My friends.  My coworkers.  

When I am feeling mad, I can choose to be calm.  When I am experiencing frustration, I can respond with patience.  When I am afraid, I can speak peace.  When I am saturated with timidity, I can pour out boldness.  When I am overwhelmed with grief, I can allow His comfort to flow out of my heart.  How?  Through Christ who supplies my every need in His strength! 

Philippians 4:13 (NIV)~I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. 

Lord,
Thank You for teaching us to "think better".  Thank You for modeling what it looks like to stop and choose our actions rather than respond to our emotions.  As the verse says tonight, I truly  relish Your counsel.  It is clear and concise and full of the unending love that You have for us! 
In Christ's Name,
Amen

Running With Joy

Psalm 119:45(MSG)
And I'll stride freely through wide open spaces as I look for Your truth and Your wisdom.

I spotted these two beauties frolicking by the pond. 



Oops, I think he heard my camera click

Time to get back to writing!  Hopefully you are having a great summer so far.  As I stared out the window yesterday, these two beautiful fawns were "freely" running in the open field.  They were playing with each other and then stopping to take quick drinks from the pond in between their dances.  After watching them jump and kick for several minutes, I caught some movement in the thicket near by.  Upon closer observation, I could see Mama Deer hiding in the brush keeping a watchful eye on her charges.  

A beautiful picture of our lives was going on just outside my window.  As a child of God, we get to enjoy the sweetness of His creation while He stands guard over us.  He has allowed us to pick up joy and run with it.  We are surrounded with the Lord's truth and wisdom, we need only look for it.

Father,
Thank you for letting me enjoy Your creation.  Lead me into Your truth and wisdom as I walk without chains.  Reveal new insight into Your Word and let my heart fill with the warmth of Your love.
Amen 

Freedom Isn't Really Free

Proverbs 28:2(MSG)

When the country is in chaos, everybody has a plan to fix it-
But it takes a real leader of real understanding to straighten things out.

Taking a brief detour through a Proverb today....in honor of Veterans and all of the men and women who serve our country.  Remembering what was said yesterday at a ceremony to acknowledge those that have sacrificed so much for each of our privileges.  The speaker said, "Freedom isn't really free!"  So true.....

Lord,

I am thankful for those that have given so much so that I could have the freedoms that I have.  Help me to never take that for granted.  Praying today for the leaders of our country to stand firm in You for guidance, understanding, and courage during these times of great challenge.

Amen

The Tattered Flag

Proverbs 6:12(MSG)
Riffraff and rascals talk out of both sides of their mouth.

I was walking out of my daughter's school today and I caught this image with my camera.  Isn't it beautiful!?  A crystal clear blue sky.  The flag blowing gently in a crisp cool breeze.  All fifty stars sharply defined.  If you look a little closer though, you see the tattered edges at the top and bottom corners.  I don't know what the flag etiquette is as far as when it has to be retired....hopefully it is ok, but those frayed edges and today's verse got the wheels in my head to turning.  Yeap...turning and turning....  Here's some of what got turned out.

So, a "rascal" is defined in the Webster's Dictionary as~"A mischievous child".  So, if you're a child, I would expect (according to God's word here) for you to talk out of both sides of your mouth.  I'm taking that to mean that a child would say one thing today and maybe the opposite tomorrow.  Makes sense, seeing as they are children and don't have any firm convictions formed yet, to stand on. 

I noticed so many new things today on my drive home.  For instance, while I was backing up my vehicle and pulling away from the education building where my daughter is provided with an outstanding unhindered education, I noticed some boys and girls running freely at play.  They were all dressed differently, because of the freedom to chose their own clothing.  I continued down the parking lot and came to a stop sign, where I had the liberty to choose which way to turn.  I proceeded to head in a direction of my preference, to a destination I decided upon, without encumbrance. 

As I moved down the road, the car behind me made a decision to take the opportunity to pass me.  (Guess he had a different idea of what 35mph is...chuckle.)  It was such a gorgeous day, that I  spontaneously chose to take a new way home.  Glad I did too, cuz I saw another school with it's flag flowing freely in the breeze and more children running at play in all different directions.....they too were all wearing unique clothing.  Next thing you know, I saw more cars and more people all deciding what direction they wanted to go, independently according to the laws of the road.  I witnessed people out walking, working in their yard, playing with their children, sitting on their decks, and delivering furniture.  All of them were doing their own thing....ceasing the day. 

I pulled up in front of my house, that my husband and I had the privilege of buying, and proceeded into the garage.  I, of course, parked my car and chose to go inside.  Once inside, I looked around at all of the books that I have chosen through the years; all of the food preferences that line my cupboards and refrigerator; all of the varied clothes on the floor (yes...on the floor...laundry time); the newspaper that I request every morning; and finally, the TV that stands in the corner, so that I can chose my own entertainment.  I went over to the remote (passing by the actual TV, cuz who uses the switch on the TV itself anymore?...not me) and turned on the news. 

There they were....standing right in my own living room.  Men, women, boys, girls, military men, military women, rescue workers, and the President of the United States of America, all standing around the flag.  They were each silent.  There was no talking.....just stillness.  There were no "rascals talking out of both sides of their mouths".......only a somber silence while they stood at Ground Zero honoring those who had fallen at the hands of a mad man's direction, nearly a decade ago.  My mind darted back to the flag at our school....a little tattered and worn...but still flying freely.....

Father God,
For those who lost loved ones in this tragedy and feel alone, help them to know they are "safe in Your arms" (click here for video) today.  As for myself, help me to be mindful of my freedoms and never to take them for granted.
In Your precious name~Jesus~
Amen

Military Salute

Proverbs 6:8 (MSG)
So how long are you going to laze around doing nothing?  How long before you get out of bed?

I am continually amazed at how these verses keep tracking my every move!  It is another rainy Monday morning, and my daughter is sick, so I stayed in bed with her until...well, let's just say...much later than usual.  As I opened the Bible to ponder my verse for the day, this is what I read...."How long before you get out of bed?"  Funny...huh? 

Before retiring last night, President Obama interrupted broadcasting to announce that United States Special Forces had killed one of the most wanted terrorists in all of the nations, Osama Bin Ladin.  The headlines are full of this event...even the front page of our local paper has his picture sprawled from one corner to the other.  It is somewhat difficult to process all of the information that has been so freely available today, as graphic details of the event, including pictures of the last room this man and his son occupied, are presented to the nation.

It has stirred deep emotions within each one of us.  From what I am reading so far, there are reactions ranging from joy and relief to anger, fear and dread.  I can't imagine what those who lost loved ones during the day of September 11, 2001 are feeling.  As the images from that day resurface and raw emotions are rekindled, I suspect a highly charged week of intense evaluation.  

I am thankful tonight for the men and women who serve their country so faithfully and sacrificially, and thereby allow us the freedom to live in a democratic society. Praying for their safety tonight as they continue their missions all around the world.