Pilgrims of Christ on the Muslim Road: Exploring a New Path Between Two Faiths - Softcover

Chandler, Paul-Gordon

Softcover

ISBN 10: 074256603X ISBN 13: 9780742566033

Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2008

Synopsis

For publicity events and speaking engagements, see http://www.paulgordonchandler.com/schedule.htm. Today's tensions between the 'Islamic' East and 'Christian' West run high. Here Paul-Gordon Chandler presents fresh thinking in the area of Christian-Muslim relations, showing how Christ_whom Islam reveres as a Prophet and Christianity worships as the divine Messiah_can close the gap between the two religions. Historically, Christians have taken a confrontational or missionary approach toward Islam, leading many Muslims to identify Christianity with the cultural prejudices and hegemonic ambitions of Westerners. On the individual level, Christ-followers within Islam have traditionally been encouraged by Christians to break away from their Muslim communities. Chandler boldly explores how these two major religions_which share much common heritage_can not only co-exist, but also enrich each other. He illustrates his perspective with examples from the life of Syrian novelist Mazhar Mallouhi, widely read in the Middle East. Mallouhi, a self-identified 'Sufi Muslim follower of Christ,' seeks to bridge the chasm of misunderstanding between Muslims and Christians through his novels.

About this title

Review:

I consider this an important book. What a life Mazhar Mallouhi has lived! He stands in an almost singular position as a bridge between two worlds which, alas, seem to be separated by an ever-increasing divide.--Philip Yancey

Following Christ within Islam? As Paul-Gordon Chandler shows, the idea is neither absurd nor impossible. In his timely, refreshing and often surprising book, Chandler seeks to break down the seemingly enormous barriers that divide Christians from Muslims, and in the process offers a potent manifesto for waging peace on Islam. I hope the book finds a very wide readership.--Philip Jenkins, distinguished professor of history and religious studies, Pennsylvania State University, and author of God's Continent

That Christians and Muslims don't understand one another is an understatement. Paul-Gordon Chandler knows both groups in detail and first hand. He pushes the rubble of stereotypes to the sidelines and in the cleared space tells the story of the novelist Mazhar Mallouhi, well-known in the Arab world. Incredibly, understanding emerges. This book couldn't be more timely.--Eugene Peterson, author and professor emeritus of spiritual theology, Regent College

This very timely book is a must for anyone who would wish to understand Muslim/Christian dialogue. Mazhar Mallouhi has a unique insight which has largely been gained through personal suffering. He has much to teach us.--Terry Waite, CBE, former envoy for the Archbishop of Canterbury, hostage negotiator, author

Pilgrims of Christ on the Muslim Road presents the story of the conversion of Mazhar Mallouhi, a Syrian, by exploring his Arab Muslim background and his exile and travels in many countries in North America and the Arab world. Mazhar's own voice comes through in the interview section, which is the last chapter of the book. Described as a man of letters and a child of many cultures, Mazhar Mallouhi offers important insights on Christianity among the Arabs as well as on issues of faith and community. His story is an object lesson on the religious principle in intercultural relations.--Lamin Sanneh, professor of World Christianity, Yale University

Don't be fooled. This is not a book primarily about Islam. Rather it is a unique and surprising new way of looking at the Biblical faith, rescuing it from centuries of human Christian cultural and theological tradition, thus freeing it to become highly attractive to Hindu, Buddhist, and, yes, Muslim seekers. Moreover, it is superbly readable, employing as a 'teaching vehicle' the pilgrimage of a Middle Eastern Muslim who was first attracted to Jesus by the concept of Christ in Hindu garments, and has now for decades worn Muslim garments as a believer in Jesus Christ. This book is truly significant for missiology on a global level.--Ralph Winter, founding president, U.S. Center for World Mission

An important and exciting introduction to Mazhar Mallouhi's life and teachings. I commend this book to all who wish to understand Islam.--George Carey, (Lord Carey of Clifton), former Archbishop of Canterbury 1991-2002

Mazhar Mallouhi is a unique example of courage and a determined witness for truth. His life is among those of the first followers of Christ who risked their lives for him and for the salvation of their people. What Paul-Gordon Chandler has done with the writing of this book is a strong and inspirational act of faith. They are birds of the same feather and they fly together.--Archbishop Elias Chacour, Melkite Catholic Palestinian Archbishop of Galilee and the Holy Land; Nobel Peace Prize nominee; author

At a time when Islamaphobia has gripped many Western Christians, Paul-Gordon shows what Christians and Muslims have often been, and can today still be: in a 'clasp' rather than a 'clash' of civilizations. Never has a book like this been more timely, or more necessary.--William Dalrymple, author of From the Holy Mountain

The stunning story of Mazhar Mallouhi reminds us that God does not leave himself without a witness in any culture, that seemingly impervious soil can bear spiritual fruit, and that the Holy Spirit can do amazing things through humble instruments. Anyone who thinks Islamic culture is a spiritual wasteland simply must read Pilgrims of Christ on the Muslim Road.--David Neff, editor and vice president, Christianity Today

About the Author:

Paul-Gordon Chandler is a U.S. Episcopal priest serving in the Middle East. He grew up in Muslim West Africa, and has lived and worked extensively throughout the Islamic world with churches, Christian publishing, and relief & development agencies.

About this edition

• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Publication date: 2008
• ISBN 10: 074256603X
• ISBN 13: 9780742566033
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 240