Muslim growth

These factors are generally put forth as explanations for the growth of Islam in the United States:  a higher birth rate among Muslims and the immigration of Muslims to America.  Growth also takes place through intermarriage with Muslims.

Early in its history Islam appealed to people because of its simplistic faith.  While Christians were debating matters of intricate doctrine, Islam promoted a “simple” faith consisting of only five “pillars,” or five duties, that adherents needed to perform.  That impression of a simplistic faith, I suppose, still appeals to some people.  In addition, because Islam is a work-righteous religion, it naturally appeals to people who think there is something they have to do and can do to find peace with a higher power.

When it comes to your question of why God “doesn’t stop them,” I have to bow in humility to God’s wisdom (Romans 11:33-36).  God knows what he is doing, and he is doing everything in the best interests of his Church.  I have to keep that same section of Scripture in mind when God tells me that shortly before the end of the world, he will grant Satan more freedom to carry out his dastardly work (Revelation 20:7-8).  I marvel at the question Jesus posed about his visible return on the last day:  “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?”  (Luke 18:8)

Over time, God’s followers have been a “little flock” (Luke 12:32) compared to the numbers of people caught up in false religions.  Because of what the Bible says about “terrible times in the last days” (2 Timothy 3:1), we can expect that description of the Church to hold true.

All this is not reason for discouragement.  No, the Good Shepherd of the little flock promises us his protecting love and informs us of his generous love that seeks to add sheep to his flock (John 10).