The Role of Works in Salvation

From the January 2010 issue of EMQ, A Muslim-Christian Dialogue on Salvation: The Role of Works, by Paul Martindale:

One principle of effective witness with Muslims is listening and allowing them to identify the issues which they find important in the discussion. It is then up to us to formulate our biblical understanding for them in those areas. At a recent meeting betwaeen [sic] Muslims and Christians on the topic of salvation, the role of works became central in the ensuing discussion.

The two main objections expressed by the Muslims present centered upon the apparent lack of works necessary for salvation in Christianity and the carte blanche Christians seem to have for sin in their lives after conversion…

Both the Muslims and the Christians present were in agreement on the following formulation for the role of works:

ISLAM
Faith + Works + Allah’s Mercy = Salvation

CHRISTIANITY
Faith + Grace = Salvation + Works

…Our dialogue with Muslims has forced us to clarify our theology of works. The biblical emphasis we place on faith and grace in salvation is certainly appropriate. However, this is not true when it is taken to the extent that the role of works in the life of the believer is ignored or becomes extinguished in our theology or praxis. For Muslims, this appears to be a central issue, and they need to see how the role of works is affirmed in Christianity…

Read the whole thing (requires a subscription to EMQ).

I would probably add to this the need to teach Muslims about regeneration- we receive new spiritual life when we are “born again.”  Our natures, lives, and desires and completely changed when we come to Christ.

We are not just trying to get Muslims to make a decision for Christ; we are trying to get them to change their affections to Christ.  Aim for a heart change.  Instead of simply asking, “How can this Muslim get saved?”, the question should be, “How can this Muslim become a follower of Jesus?”  Disciples who embrace Christ as their supreme treasure are heaven-bound; but those who insincerely make a decision for “an easy road to heaven” may not.