SS Outline 8.16.2026

The Rise of Islam and Its Impact on Christianity
Big Idea: Within a century, Islam conquered much of Christianity’s historic heartland. John of Damascus demonstrates faithful theological engagement from within a conquered church.

I. The Rapid Expansion of Islam
The exhaustion of the Byzantine and Persian empires
The Arab conquests from Syria to Spain
Christians living under Islamic rule
The loss of Jerusalem, Antioch, and Alexandria

II. John of Damascus: A Christian under the Caliphate
His Christian family and government service
His monastic life near Jerusalem
His theological writings

III. John’s Defense of the Christian Faith
Responding to Islamic claims about Christ and the Trinity
Defending the use and veneration of icons
Systematizing Eastern Christian theology
Evaluating John from a Reformed Baptist perspective

IV. Lessons for the Church Today
Know the faith clearly
Test every claim by Scripture
Defend the truth with courage and gentleness
Trust Christ to preserve his church
Pray for Christians living under hostile governments