ISLAM DID NOT ORIGINATE FROM GOD

ISLAM DID NOT ORIGINATE FROM GOD: A Critical Inquiry into Islamic Religious Leadership

Thursday, April 7, 2016
By Dr. Maxwell Shimba
Max Shimba Ministries Org.

---

Introduction

Many Muslims respond defensively when it is stated that Islam is a man-made religion. They often accuse critics of slander and falsehood, while failing to offer concrete scriptural evidence to defend their positions. Today, I pose a critical and theological inquiry directed to Muslims: Where in the Qur'an does Allah command the establishment of religious titles such as Imams, Sheikhs, or Ustaadhs?

---

Theological Challenge to Islam

Muslims are invited to present direct verses from the Qur'an that clearly authorize the creation or appointment of religious leaders with the titles of Imam, Sheikh, or Ustaadh, along with their qualifications and roles. This call for evidence is not out of hostility but arises from a sincere desire for truth and clarity. If these roles are divinely ordained, as claimed, then surely there must be explicit Qur'anic support for them.

To date, no verse has been cited that outlines these positions with clarity and divine authority. Instead, what is often presented is Surah Al-Baqarah 2:124, which reads:

“And (remember) when Abraham was tried by his Lord with certain commands, which he fulfilled. He (Allah) said: ‘Indeed I will make you a leader (Imam) for the people.’ Abraham said: ‘And of my descendants?’ [Allah] said: ‘My covenant does not include the wrongdoers.’”

This verse, however, refers specifically to Abraham’s divine testing and appointment, not to a systematic, replicable framework for religious leadership within Islam. It does not establish the office of “Imam” as a clerical title or provide qualifications for such an office in Islamic practice.

---

Absence of Clerical Structure in the Qur'an

There is a notable absence of guidance in the Qur'an concerning the criteria, responsibilities, or divine mandate for individuals to bear titles like Imam, Sheikh, or Ustaadh. If these positions are fundamental to Islamic religious life, as widely practiced, one would expect the Qur'an to offer detailed prescriptions concerning their qualifications, moral character, and appointment procedures.

This lack of guidance raises theological and doctrinal concerns about the authenticity and divine origin of such clerical titles within Islam. Their presence in Islamic societies appears more cultural or traditional rather than scripturally mandated.

---

Contrast with Christian Leadership in the Bible

In contrast, the Bible offers comprehensive and divinely inspired instructions regarding church leadership. Scripture clearly identifies offices within the Church and outlines their qualifications:

1. Christ is the head of the Church – the ultimate authority (Ephesians 1:22; 4:15; Colossians 1:18).

2. Church autonomy is affirmed – local churches are self-governing under Christ’s headship (Titus 1:5).

3. Spiritual leadership is established through two primary offices – elders (bishops/pastors) and deacons.

---

Biblical Qualifications for Church Leaders

• Bishops/Pastors:
  1 Timothy 3:1-7 provides a detailed list of qualifications, including moral integrity, faithful family life, self-control, hospitality, teaching ability, and spiritual maturity.

• Deacons:
  1 Timothy 3:8-13 outlines the requirements for deacons, including dignity, honesty, spiritual conviction, and a disciplined life. Their wives must also exhibit honorable character (verse 11).

These offices are not cultural inventions but clearly instituted by divine instruction. Other supporting texts include Titus 1:1–4, Titus 1:5–3:11, and Titus 2:11–15, which further affirm the structure and function of Christian leadership.

---

Conclusion

The glaring lack of explicit Qur'anic guidance on the roles of Imam, Sheikh, or Ustaadh suggests that these are man-made constructs, not divine appointments. They lack scriptural authority and transparency in their origin and function. By contrast, the Bible provides robust, inspired criteria for religious leadership, grounded in divine order and spiritual integrity.

I extend an open invitation to all Muslims to examine these truths and consider embracing the Christian faith, where God has clearly revealed His will concerning church leadership and governance. Christianity, unlike Islam, offers a spiritual structure ordained by God, grounded in Scripture, and manifest in the lives of Spirit-filled leaders.

May the Lord bless you with wisdom and understanding.

Dr. Maxwell Shimba
Founder, Max Shimba Ministries Org.

---