Confronting Contradictions: Examining Jesus’ Divinity in a Debate with a Muslim Preacher

In today’s post, we delve into a thought-provoking conversation led by popular Muslim preacher Fibbin Ibn Farooq. During a dialogue with a young boy named Samuel, the discussion centers around the nature of Jesus Christ and the validity of the Bible. 

Samuel initially holds a belief that Jesus is God but begins to waver when confronted with various arguments posed by Sheikh Uthman.

This exchange not only highlights the importance of understanding one’s faith but also serves as an opportunity to affirm our belief in Jesus as divine.

The Islamic Dilemma: A Clash of Scriptures

Uthman attempts to cast doubt on the credibility of the Bible while advocating for the Quran. When Samuel asks,

“Where is the Injeel?”

—the Arabic term for the Gospel.

Uthman responded by saying,

“Injeel is where Allah wants it to be.”

This answer exposes profound inconsistencies in Islamic theology. The Quran acknowledges the Gospel as the word of God, stating:

“And We sent Jesus, the son of Mary, after those Prophets, confirming the truth of whatever there still remained of the Torah. And We gave him the Gospel, wherein is guidance and light, and which confirms the truth of whatever there still remained of the Torah.” – Surah 5:46

This acknowledgment creates what is commonly referred to as the “Islamic dilemma.” If the Gospel is indeed God’s word yet contains contradictions with the Quran, then one of these texts must be inherently flawed.

This dilemma highlights the need for clarity and understanding in religious beliefs. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged to examine the Scriptures deeply. As Jesus Himself stated:

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32

Questioning the Authority of Scripture

Uthman’s strategy shifts to undermining the authority of the Torah, questioning its authenticity and availability. In his attempts to prove that the scriptures have been corrupted, he seems unaware of the significance of the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Discovered in the mid-20th century, these manuscripts date back to between 70 AD and 200 BC and provide compelling evidence of the Old Testament’s preservation and authenticity.

Consider what 2 Timothy 3:16 teaches us:

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”

This verse shows all Scripture is inspired by God, in contrast to Uthman’s claims. Despite his efforts to question the Bible, the discoveries related to the Dead Sea Scrolls support its validity over the centuries.

Understanding the Nature of Jesus

As the discussion progresses, Samuel and Uthman delve into the divinity of Jesus. Uthman attempts to manage the conversation by comparing Jesus to other Biblical prophets, challenging Samuel to clarify the unique status of Jesus as divine.

Samuel responds by saying Jesus was born without a father, making Him divine. 

“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14

Uthman, looking for a way to ensnare Samuel in contradiction, poses a question about Melchizedek, a figure mentioned in the book of Hebrews:

“If being born without a father makes one divine, what about Melchizedek, who is described as having no father or mother? Is he divine?”

Samuel is caught in a complex position as Uthman seeks to seize the discussion regarding human lineage and divinity.

The key takeaway here is the importance of being prepared to defend our faith with clarity, scripture, and theologically sound reasoning. 

The Knowledge of Jesus: A Deeper Understanding

The dialogue then shifts to Jesus’ knowledge and whether or not He possesses omniscience [All knowing]. Uthman cites Mark 13:32:

“But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”

By highlighting this verse, Uthman argues that since Jesus does not know everything, He cannot be God. However, this claim is rooted in a misunderstanding of Jesus’ role in the context of the Jewish culture and wedding customs of the time.

During a traditional wedding, it was typically the father of the groom who would announce the time for the revelation and gathering of the bride, emphasizing the honor and respect associated with such an announcement.

This clarity adds depth to Jesus’ statement and reveals His understanding of the relationship between Himself and the Father. Jesus being the groom, and the church as the bride. He uses this cultural reference to illustrate His sonship status with God, calling into question Uthman’s assumptions. 

The Jews listening would have recognized this meaning, understanding that Jesus was asserting His divine nature.

Concluding Thoughts on Faith and Dialogue

Throughout this engaging exchange, it becomes clear that Uthman’s arguments not only challenge Samuel’s beliefs but also unwittingly reinforce the validity of the Christian faith.

While attempting to undermine the faith of others, inconsistencies and flaws in his own assertions come to light.

As followers of Christ, embracing the importance of scripture and understanding the cultural context behind our beliefs is essential. The famous passage from 1 Peter 3:15 reminds us:

“But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.”

Our ability to articulate our beliefs thoughtfully aligns with our calling as believers.

In closing, I encourage you to further explore the depths of Christian theology and understanding through detailed study. For more insights and theological discussions, please read this enlightening article about how Luke presents Jesus as the only true God. 

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