Radical Islam: What You Need to Know (Unlocking the Truth)
Ten years after 9/11, most Americans still don't know why radical Muslims hate us.  We have now been fighting in Afghanistan longer than any war in our nation's history, with no end to the "war on terror" in sight.  I am convinced that radical Islam is the greatest threat our nation has ever faced.  It is vital that we understand the nature of this enemy and take practical steps to end this conflict and forge a sustaining peace. I have lived in the Muslim world and traveled in Muslim-majority nations for many years. I have spent significant time in Israel and the Middle East over the past 15 years.  And I have taught world religions for 27 years on four seminary faculties.  I have long been concerned about the rise of radical elements within the world's second-largest religion, and wrote the book to explain their motives and describe pro-active ways we can respond to their hatred. I have also served as a pastor for more than 25 years, and have a deep passion to see moral and spiritual renewal in our culture.  I believe that such a movement is essential to the future of our democracy and a vital component in our response to Islam.  My book outlines the spiritual implications of our conflict with radical Islam and proposes steps that Christians and churches can take as catalysts for renewal. My motives for writingRadical Islam: What You Need To Knoware personal as well.  My father was a Sunday school teacher before witnessing horrific atrocities while fighting in World War II.  He was never able to reconcile his faith with intellectual challenges such as evil and suffering, science and faith, and world religions.  Over time his issues became mine.  I am fascinated by the spiritual questions our culture is asking today, chief among them the challenge of pluralism and the rise of Islam. I wroteRadical Islamto help Americans understand the terrorist threat we confront every day, and to encourage practical steps in securing our moral and national future.  If the book spurs and informs our dialogue on one of the most critical issues we have ever faced, I will be grateful.