There is a long list of reasons why Encountering the World of Islam (EWI) is an important class for people in churches. We recently found one in an article from the Al-Jazeera news service. While this may not be news to most Muslims, an Al-Jazeera survey revealed that 46% of Americans polled have a negative opinion of Muslim countries.

Sometimes when we say we want to respect Muslims, people hear us suggesting that we have to accept or even endorse their beliefs. Encountering the World of Islam (EWI) students often notice that the class is not just about beliefs, but also about historical and cultural realities and values.

This beautiful video captures the voice of most Muslims, in our experience. From this perspective, it seems that the question we should be asking is how we ought to minister to the various Muslims pictured in the video.

In July, Keith and Sean traveled to Nigeria, where we saw 182 participants over the course of three Encountering the World of Islam (EWI) seminars. The first seminar was composed primarily of pastors, denominational leaders, and mission directors. The second was a group of Nigerians preparing to go cross-culturally as missionaries. The third consisted of 50 nationals currently working with Muslims.

As we speak around the country in Encountering the World of Islam (EWI), we are frequently asked this question: Can an Islamic society be democratic? The difficulty with the question lies in the vast difference of opinion between Muslims about what Islam has been, is today, and should be in the future.