Claiming Abraham: Reading the Bible and the Qur'an Side by Side »

Michael Lodahl (PhD, Emory University) is professor of theology at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California, and has studied extensively in Israel and Jordan. He is an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene and has served congregations in three states. Lodahl is the author of several books, including The Story of God: A Narrative Theology.

Many of the Bible's characters and stories are also found in the Qur'an, but there are often differing details or new twists in the Qur'an's retelling of biblical narrative. In this compelling book, seasoned theologian Michael Lodahl explores these fascinating divergences to discover the theological difference they make.

Writing from a Christian perspective that is respectful of the Islamic tradition, Lodahl offers an accessible introduction to Muslim theology and to the Qur'an's leading themes to help readers better understand Islam. Lodahl compares and contrasts how the Bible and the Qur'an depict and treat certain characters in common to both religions, including Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. He offers theological reflection on doctrines held in common by Christians and Muslims, such as creation, revelation, and the resurrection of the body. Lodahl also explores the Jewish tradition as an important source for understanding the Qur'an.

1. Arguing over Abraham Arguing with God

2. People of the Torah, People of the Gospel

3. The Creative Word of God: Be!

4. The Revealing of the Word of God

5. Adam: What Does It Mean to Be Human?

6. Cain and Abel: The Commanding Word of God

7. Knowing Noah--or Not

8. The Sign of Sinai

9. Mary, Mother of Jesus

10. Jesus, Son of Mary

11. Adonai, Allah, and the Triune God

12. Apocalypse When?

Reopening: Conversation Continues