The Burj Al Arab in Dubai is one of the most opulent hotels in the world.  It is rated seven stars and guests have the choice of being picked up at the airport by either a Rolls Royce or a helicopter (I choose the Rolls).  Bathroom fixtures are said to be gold and rooms cost anywhere from $7,000 to 10,000 a night.  It has the tallest atrium in the world and has an underwater restaurant.  Roger Federer and Andre Agassi even once played tennis on its helipad.  It is widely considered today as Dubai's most recognizable landmark.

However, it is becoming more known for a not so small controversy.  Right or wrong, many hyper Christians and upset Muslim residents insist that it is the largest cross in the world (the hotel stands 321 meters).  The facade certainly forms a cross but it is debatable whether it was intentional or not.  Its British designer has remained silent on the subject furthering suspicions.  During the design phase, the architect explained that the structure represents a sail (the hotel looks over the Persian Gulf).  Those unconvinced refer to a story that the designer is a Christian who had a dream to somehow exert Christian influence over the Muslim country and so devised a way to construct the world's biggest cross under his clients noses.  It allegedly faces Mecca.

True or not, the Dubai authorities issued a license plate in 2001 bearing the image of the hotel.  After all the conspiracy theories started circulating, the license plate was hastily withdrawn in 2004 without any explanation.  Some even claim that cars with the old license plates are not allowed into Saudi Arabia.

Urban legend or fact?

Wild imagination or truth?

Believe it or not.

There is no question that Muslims are attempting to position Islam as the dominant ideology of the 21st century. World headlines demonstrate their determination and the grounds they have gained in this effort.

“Holy Warriors: a fresh look at the face of extreme Islam” is a highly readable primer on Islam, with a particular emphasis on its radical wing. Though brief and concise, it is well thought-out.

Frog and Amy Orr-Ewing make the case that militant Islam, despite what moderate Muslim leaders claim, finds its basis and is consistent with the scriptures and history of Islam. Remember that the Taliban’s theology and methodology is founded upon a “pure” and uncompromising interpretation of the Koran and Muhammad’s teachings.

What is most intriguing and insightful is how the authors draw from the Bible and Church history to arrive at a biblical response to Muslims. While much of the free world is drumming up the current conflict as an “us versus them” or “Christianity versus Islam” scenario, as believers, we need to turn to our own Scriptures to see how God wants us to respond to Muslims. By constantly portraying Muslims as the enemy, wittingly or unwittingly, world governments, the press, and even Christian leaders are setting the stage for another Crusades – one of the biggest mistakes in church history, the consequences of which we are still paying for.

The Orr-Ewings turn to a highly inspiring account in church history to help us understand our role as 21st century Christians in the face of radical Islam and Muslims. During the fifth Crusade, as “Christian” mercenaries marched towards Jerusalem to reclaim the Holy Land and commit atrocities in the name of God, Francis of Assisi and some of his monks made their way to the frontlines, crossed over to the Muslim side, and preached the Gospel. It was the same message he preached to the crusaders themselves. This deeply impacted both Christians and Muslims alike including the Sultan. Likewise today, in the face of evil and violence, the Christian response remains to see Muslims as people Jesus died for and to make every effort to ensure that they have an opportunity to hear the message of the Gospel. Our response to violence is not more violence, but to offer life.

The book includes a fascinating account of the authors’ and their friends’ adventurous trek into Taliban era Afghanistan and their resulting interview with its leaders. This book will give you greater insight to understand what is really going on behind today’s headlines.

An excellent article that was reprinted by Christianity Today was just forwarded to me by our "Walking Bible" – Pastor Winston Reyes. It gives valuable insight into what makes Islam attractive to Muslims and how they view Christians. It gives you a window into a Muslim's mind. Though it was intended for the American Church, the principles shared apply everywhere.

Please check it out at www.christianitytoday.com/outreach/articles/islamunveiled.html.

28%
projected percentage of Muslims in the world by 2050


Today, 20% of the world’s population is Muslim. By 2050, Patrick Johnstone (Operation World) estimates it at 27-28%.

Granted, most of this growth is by birth instead of conversion. Nevertheless, by sheer number alone, Islam will continue to cast a large shadow over the 21st century. That means every believer must learn how to respond to Islam and Muslims. We cannot ignore or simply pass them off to missionaries. If one out of every three people in the world very soon will be Muslim, we all need to learn how to respond, relate, and reach them. It won't be difficult to find them, they'll be everywhere.

The good news is Evangelical Christianity will continue to be the fastest growing religion. Even better news is that this growth is primarily due to millions and millions more surrendering their lives to Christ over the next decades.  That's the kind of growth that matters.