We have actually touched on it much above, but a separate category is probably in order. Islam was forced often to make alliances with the tribes that dotted the desert of Arabia. Many came to him for political alliance. All of them wanted protection from enemies. It is a natural thing, and reminds us of Israel's situation.

But in the seventh century A.D. we are long past those Biblical Israel days. Islam should know this.

When Jesus' disciples wanted to send down fire on cities He let them know that they were unaware of their own motivation. That things had changed. That that sort of force and power was to be suspended for now. Jesus had no military agenda. When trouble came, Jesus often just walked away. Or the power of God ruled the situation.

True prophets of God do not ask for or need the protection of men. But Muhammad's life story is a bloody one. Attacks on the caravans from Mecca. Attacks on neighboring tribes that seemed not to be in sympathy. Murder and pillage. And the promise of eternal life to all his brave warriors who conducted "holy war" in the name of Allah.

That has not changed today, by the way. And it may have measures of success, depending on how the Lord wants to use His enemies to bless His Kingdom. But this sort of warfare, whether by Muslims or Crusaders or Holy warriors of any generation, will not earn one eternal bliss and eternal favor with God.