Curricula
Being Reformed series: Islam and Christianity, Leader’s Guide
Using a dialogue method between Muslims and a Christian, this study provides an introductory understanding of Muslim beliefs about Scripture, monotheism, Jesus, the five pillars of Islam, Muhammad and requirements for holy living.
The Thoughtful Christian has several adult studies related to the topic of Christian-Muslim interfaith relations. Each study includes a leader’s guide.
- Islam — 4 sessions Click here for a sample.
The purpose of these sessions is to give participants a basic understanding of the history of Islam; its holy books and central doctrines; the geographical, religious, social and political dimensions of the spread of Islam, and the history of Muslim and Christian relations to encourage deeper understanding and respect today.
- Introduction to the Koran — 2 sessions Click here for a sample.
The purpose of these sessions is to familiarize participants with the origin, form and function of the Koran in Islam; to help Christians discover the similarities and differences between the Koran and the Bible; and to provide an overview of the Koran’s content.
- Shi’ites and Sunnis — 1 session Click here for a sample.
The purpose of this session is to understand the fundamental differences betweenSunni and Shi’ite Islam.
- Interfaith Marriage — 2 sessions Click here for a sample.
These sessions focus on identifying the challenges and opportunities faced by those in interfaith marriages, as well as exploring the views of Christianity, Islam and Judaism regarding marriage and interfaith marriage.
Books
- Islam: What Non-Muslims Should Know, by John Kaltner. An important read for people interested in learning more about this misunderstood faith.
- No god but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam, by Reza Aslan: Internationally acclaimed scholar of religions examines the fastest-growing religion in the world.
- Acts of Faith: The Story of an American Muslim, the Struggle for the Soul of a Generation, by Eboo Patel: An account of growing up Muslim in America and coming to believe in religious pluralism and the importance of interfaith dialogue.
- A Common Word: Muslims and Christians on Loving God and Neighbor, by Miroslav Volf, Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad Bin Talal, Melissa Yarrington, eds.: Features an open letter to Christian leaders from Muslim leaders published in The New York Times as well as a collaborative Christian response.
- The Fear of Islam: An Introduction to Islamophobia in the West, by Todd H. Green. Explores the historical roots and modern forms of Islamophobia.
- The Faith Club: A Muslim, A Christian, A Jew – Three Women Search for Understanding by Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver and Priscilla Warner. Appendix includes practical information on how to start a faith club.
- Download a suggested book list.
Other publications
- What is the Truth About American Muslims? Organized and produced by Interfaith Alliance and Religious Freedom Education Project of the First Amendment Center, this educational booklet provides answers to questions about religious freedom and dispels myths about American Muslims.
- “My Neighbor is Muslim: Exploring the Muslim Faith.” Created by Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, this small group study helps Christians better understand the Muslim faith.
Need more resources? Contact Ellen Sherby, coordinator for Equipping for Mission Involvement, at ellen.sherby@pcusa.org or Stephanie Caudill, mission associate for Equipping for Mission Involvement, at stephanie.caudill@pcusa.org.
