What Do Muslims Believe About Jesus?

The Qur’an has a lot to say about Jesus. In fact, it mentions Jesus (or Isa) 25 times, but differently each time. The Qur’an explains that Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary and is “high honored in this and the next world.” Thus, He is called Isa ibn Maryam (“Jesus son of Mary”). 

The Qur’an also refers to Him as ruh min Allah (“Spirit from God”), mushia bi’l baraka (“the Messiah—someone blessed by God”), kalimah min Allah (“Word from/of God”), and rasul (“Prophet-Messenger of God”). 

Furthermore, the Qur’an relates the story of the angel’s announcement to Mary that she would have a son and the story of His virgin birth, and attributes to Jesus a number of miracles. In short, it says many wonderful things about Him.

However, these wonderful things concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ do not communicate to a Muslim what they would to a Christian, who views Christ in light of New Testament teaching. Muslims see Christ as a prophet and envoy of God of “surpassing greatness” (according to one Muslim writer) but only a man and nothing more. 

The Qur’an also includes numerous denunciations of its interpretation of the Trinity — seeming to assume that Christians believe the Trinity consists of God the Father and the Virgin Mary, and their child, Jesus. This isn’t what the Bible teaches nor what orthodox Christians have historically affirmed. 

Perhaps most notably, Muslims do not believe in original sin. In Islam, there is no need for Christ’s atoning death; each person is responsible for his or her own actions. Sin isn’t a matter of the total depravity of human nature but is more a weakness, defect, or flaw in human character. 

Muslims see no need for a savior, nor do they believe in Jesus’ crucifixion. Islamic tradition explains that Jesus — as a performer of exceptional miracles — was rescued by God from an untimely end and raised up to heaven. For Muslims, it is unthinkable that God would allow Jesus, God’s anointed prophet, to be crucified. 

Muslims believe that Jesus will return on the Day of Judgment, when He will destroy the ad-dajjal — the anti-Christ or imposter.

At Arabic Media Ministries, we work tirelessly to share the truth of the gospel in the face of these misunderstandings and declarations, unleashing its power to Arabic-speakers across the Middle East and North Africa. 

With your support, AMM’s ministries are touching the lives of thousands every month. Learn how you can help us share the gospel with people seeking truth in the Arab world.

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Sources: Surah 3:45.