(photo credit: Associated Press)

I wholeheartedly reject the notion of anyone — especially a pastor, or anyone who claims to be a follower of Jesus Christ — burning a book considered holy by another people of another religion.

As an evangelical Christian, I certainly don’t believe the Qur’an (sometimes spelled “Koran”) was inspired. I don’t believe it is holy. I don’t believe it is the Word of God. Rather, I believe those who follow Islam are mistaken and misguided and need to leave Islam and receive Jesus Christ by faith as their personal Savior and Lord. The Bible says the name of Jesus is only name under heaven or on earth by which we can be forgiven of our sins and thus saved from an eternity separated from God. [Have you ever heard of the “Four Spiritual Laws,” a clear and concise explanation of the gospel of Jesus Christ? Click here to learn more.]

As such, I respectfully call on this Florida pastor to:

1. Stop this provocative and unkind publicity stunt of planning to burn a copy of the Qur’an on September 11th
2. Stop calling for others to follow your lead
3. Disband your “International Burn The Koran Day”
4. Please turn back to the Bible and follow the words of Jesus who told us to love our neighbors and love our enemies and pray for — not purposefully provoke — those who oppose, mistreat and/or persecute us
5. Apologize to all of those whom you have offended
6. Call for a day of prayer and fasting for Muslims here in the U.S. and around the world, that they might find the love of Christ and salvation through His name
7. Encourage your congregation to build bridges of friendship with Muslims in your community in hopes of being able to share the gospel with them and invite them to join a Bible study group

As I wrote in Inside The Revolution, the Lord has called us to show love and compassion and mercy to Muslims. For those looking for practical suggestions on how to do that, I hope the book (and the accompanying small group study guide) will help.