Hi Sheridan,
Thanks for your good work on Open House.
I was listening with interest to the discussion on Muslim/Christian discussions. I am fortunate to be studying as a postgraduate student at university amongst students of a wide variety of ethnic and religious background, including some Muslims. I have had interesting conversations with two Muslim background male students in particular. I have learnt that an effective way of talking to them about faith is to ask questions, respectfully trying to see what they believe and where they're at. These two guys are very happy to talk about religion. They are even happy to talk about Jesus. A great question to ask is 'what do you think of Jesus?'. Both of them said they thought Jesus was a great guy, but at this stage they both don't want to recognise his divinity. I have challenged both of them to read the gospel accounts of Jesus' ministry, life, death and resurrection rather than just relying o what the Koran says about him. One of them has been reading 'More than a carpenter', which I lent him. No joy yet but I continue to pray! And I keep discussing it with them as the opportunities arise.
I have also learnt to appreciate the rich knowledge both of these guys have of Arabic and Koranic literature and their culture. They are deep thinkers and have a much deeper understanding of their world than many Australians have or could be bothered to pursue. I think there is a lot we can learn from them in that regard.