The argument/thesis/main idea of the book David Shenk’s primary objective is to lay the ground work for a path to relationship between Christians and Muslims. In spite of an era of deep religious conflict between Muslims and Christians, exacerbated by violence and retaliation, Shenk argues that real relationship can be developed between these seemingly adversarial groups. Through mutual respect, loving hospitality, and forthright conversation from a Christ centered perspective, Shenk believes that Christians can developed meaningful and impactful relationships with Muslims.
An evaluation of the sources used for the study Shenk draws upon his fifty years of first hand experiences with building friendships with Muslims in Somalia, Kenya, the United States and around the world as the source for his book. Shenk experiences as a Mennonite missionary in Somalia, directing the school at the Somalia Mennonite Mission, shape much of his…show more content… The first is to live with integrity, and the second is like it, to keep clear idenity. Authentic witness hinges on Christians living with integrity and do so in community with Muslims. Many Muslims associate Christianity not just with a belief in Jesus, but also a particular geopolitical system that is an enemy of Muslims. Consequently, it is important for Christians to live with integrity in all areas, living out their faith as openly as possible, as a witness to the love of Christ and their commitment to bring glory and honor to his Kingdom. Shenk outlines the identity of the church of Philadelphia as a path for the church to maintain clear Christian identity that leads to open doors. The key to the identity of the church of Philadelphia are members that stand firm in the faith, they claim the name of God, they identify with the New Jerusalem, and they were sealed in the name of Jesus. When Christians live with integrity, with clear identity, doors open for relationship with
