The Question of Salvation in Islam and Christianity

 

The Question of Salvation in Islam and Christianity

By Dr. Maxwell Shimba, Shimba Theological Institute

One of the most pressing theological issues between Islam and Christianity is the question of salvation and assurance of eternal life. The Qur’an itself acknowledges uncertainty in this matter, even concerning the Prophet Muhammad. In Surah al-Ahqaf (46:9), Muhammad declares:

“I am not something original among the messengers, nor do I know what will be done with me or with you. I only follow that which is revealed to me, and I am only a clear warner.”

This verse raises a critical point: Muhammad himself confessed ignorance of his ultimate destiny and that of his followers. From a doctrinal standpoint, this suggests that Islam does not guarantee salvation even to its founder, let alone to his adherents.

Further, the Qur’an explicitly states in Surah Maryam (19:71):

“There is none of you but will come to it [Hell]; this is upon your Lord an inevitability decreed.”

Islamic commentators have long debated whether this means that all Muslims will inevitably enter Hell, if only temporarily, before possibly being delivered. Yet the plain text offers no assurance of escape, highlighting a stark contrast with the Christian promise of eternal life.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ declares with absolute authority:

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6).

Unlike Muhammad’s uncertainty, Christ provides an unambiguous assurance of salvation through His sacrificial death and resurrection. The Apostle John affirms:

“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13).

Thus, the Christian Gospel offers not only the possibility but the certainty of eternal life for those who believe in Christ. Islam, by contrast, leaves its followers under the shadow of uncertainty and even warns of an inevitable encounter with Hell.

Conclusion

The Qur’an’s admission of Muhammad’s ignorance about salvation (Qur’an 46:9) and its universal warning of Hell for all people (Qur’an 19:71) stand in profound tension with the Christian doctrine of assurance in Christ. While Islam offers no guarantee of paradise, the Gospel of Jesus Christ promises forgiveness, reconciliation with God, and eternal life to all who believe in Him. Therefore, there is no salvation outside of Jesus Christ.

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📚 References

• The Qur’an, Surah al-Ahqaf 46:9; Surah Maryam 19:71.

• The Holy Bible, John 14:6; 1 John 5:13.

• Ibn Kathir, Tafsir al-Qur’an al-‘Azim.

• Al-Tabari, Jami‘ al-Bayan fi Ta’wil al-Qur’an.