Islam as a religion is very much discussed in the Adventist Church today. One scholar even suggested to reinterpret the little horn of Daniel 7 and include modern Islam. This is not the approach taken by Hans and Daniel Heinz. Father and son, a theologian (Th.D.) and a church historian (Ph.D.), have written a very informative book about Islam and its relationship to Christianity. Translated into English the title would be Christianity Encounters Islam: A Religious Challenge. The book was published in Switzerland. It is volume 1 of a series dealing with theology, history, and the world view of Seventh-day Adventists. Providing a detailed history of Islam from its beginning to the 21st century the authors point out the fragmentation of Islam into various denominations and sects, discuss Islam’s theology, and inform the readers about its encounters with Christianity. The book also deals with the Islam renaissance in our days as well as with its fundamentalism. Although a challenge, the authors see in the revival of Islam a chance for Bible-oriented Christianity to begin a conversation. They are not shy to point out points of similarities and areas of serious differences. The appendix contains data concerning the growth of Islam on a worldwide scale, a chart that compares Christianity with Islam, a bibliography, a time table containing important events of history, and a glossary.

The book is written in an irenic tone without downplaying differences and glossing over unpleasant historical events. It is good to read and very instructive. A translation of the German original into English could be beneficial to the church worldwide.