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Essay / Comparison of Islam and Christianity - 738
Comparison of Islam and ChristianityAlthough they share several fundamental theological ideas, Christianity and Islam differ on countless key characteristics. The most important differences include the atonement, the identity of God, heaven, the vision of Jesus, and the perception of the Christian Bible. It is these not-so-subtle contrasts of thought that separate the world's two most widespread religions. One of the most important differences between Christianity and Islam is the concept of atonement. In Christianity, Jesus' death on the cross allows Christians to repent of their sins and obtain God's forgiveness. Conversely, in Islam, there is no atonement for sins with Allah, even if they repent and confess their sins. While Christians believe that their sincere repentance gives them a clean slate with God, Muslims believe that, despite their repentance, their sins will still be held against them when they are judged on the last day. These divergent views on forgiveness set the tone for each respective religion, with Christianity considered a forgiving and loving religion, and Islam considered an uncompromising and action-based religion. Another important difference between Christians and Muslims is their view of God. Although Muslims claim that Allah is the same as God the Father, Christians deny these claims, citing the fact that they worship the Holy Trinity. Christians follow a Triune God, equal parts God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Although each has specific roles and responsibilities, Christians view them as one God. This differs from the Islamic view of a singular God, called Allah, playing a similar creating and sustaining role as God the Father. Interestingly, Muslims play a role similar to the Hebrew Messiah, ultimately saving the Jews from their sins. His death on the cross and resurrection gave Christians the opportunity to be forgiven of their sins and have the chance to live with God for eternity in heaven. Although Muslims respect the teachings of Jesus, they only consider him a great prophet, but not as great as Muhammad. They believe that God replaced him with Judas on the cross, dispelling the Christian belief that his death saved them from their sins. Although they are conceptually similar, the major differences between Islamic and Christian theology become evident upon closer examination. The differences mentioned above, and especially each religion's view of Jesus, prevent Muslims and Christians from agreeing on anything theological and have created a chasm between the two cousin religions that currently dominate world theology..