Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Mohammed Recognized as Prophet in Westminster Abbey

During a Gallipoli centenary service at Westminster Abbey, in the presence of The Queen no less, a Turkish prayer was said which proclaimed Mohammed as being in the succession of the prophets.  Cranmer has the text of the prayer.

Now perhaps we could write off the inclusion of the prayer in the service as interfaith politeness and inclusion, if you will.  But last I attended, Westminster Abbey was a Christian institution, a royal peculiar of God’s Holy Church.  And Christians are not to give the illusion that false religion has any honored place in the Church.  Nor are they to give any space to the deadly delusion that Christianity is an optional way to God, and Islam et al are alternative ways to God.  Yes, these are the chief reasons I oppose virtually all interfaith services.

(And if you think that’s mean, look at how Muslims treat Christian expression.)

Readers know I am no basher of Westminster Abbey.  I love the place and her Dean and have fond memories of worshipping there on numerous occasions.  But Westminster Abbey owes an explanation for this enormity.  I disagree with Cranmer on much, but I heartily agree with his conclusion:


It may not be very PC or neighbourly or conducive to interfaith relations to say it, but Mohammed was a false prophet (Jer 14:14-16; 1Jn 4:1; Acts 4:12; 2Cor 11:3f). By rejecting the crucifixion and denying the resurrection of Christ (who is not the ‘Chosen One’), Islam espouses ‘another Jesus’, ‘another spirit’ and ‘another gospel’. They are and ought to remain free to proclaim their religiosity, however false and erroneous it may be. But not, please God, in The Collegiate Church of St Peter (aka Westminster Abbey), which is a Royal Peculiar of the Supreme Governor.

No comments: