Even in the days of Peter there were those who wanted to bring terror to those who trusted Christ. In our present day not much has changed. Terrorists are completely dedicated to their understanding of their cause, probably Islam, and that the entire world should be converted or punished. Should an American turn to terrorism, he may be seeking someone else to give him structure and guidance. The convert must have a disgruntled attitude toward their environment and want change. They are first enlisted into the teachings of Islam, then they are indoctrinated to become terrorists. They are brainwashed that they have a personal mission to do horrible acts.
Ironically some of the ideas of terrorists are valid. They are against materialism and laziness in spiritual matters. Few Americans could quote three Bible verses. Muslims are expected to memorize the entire Koran that is approximately the size of the New Testament. Muslims are expected to evangelize your neighbors. The attendance of most Christian churches is declining. While Muslims are expected to stay true to their faith, few Americans can cite the main doctrinal points of their own denominations.
Terrorists think of us as wicked. They call us infidels. They believe we have three gods when we talk of the Trinity. They have an inferior opinion of women as indicated by how they are treated and how they are expected to dress. When Mohammed originated Islam as a result of his claims to have talked to the angel Gabriel, he wanted to repair the terrible and immoral conditions in Mecca. He did this through instruction, merchant missionaries, and military force. In his day men were told to convert or be killed. Terrorists believe it is their godly responsibility to claim and fix the world; if through murder.
The killing of civilians, including children, is not an issue for them because the wrongs must be righted. A bomber is considered a martyr for his faith. Sometimes their surviving relatives are given money. Dying for Allah is a direct access to Paradise where what is sinful on earth such as wine, will be allowed. People in Paradise will have fine clothes and riches. Men will have many virgin “servants.”
We can suspect that a terrorist convert probably has had some mental health problem. They may have depression, anxiety, or be socially inept. They may have been emotionally hurt by someone. They may display a narcissistic thought pattern. We can probably assume there is some issue that makes them search outside (and inappropriately) from themselves and their former environment. They give their own definition of morals and the rights of others. Their definition is the only one that matters. The explanation can be simpler. They have a fanatical devotion to their religion and cause. This can be appealing to some people.
Our biggest concern right now is suicide bombers. Terrorists are constantly changing their tactics. Now it includes the green-eyed woman, somebody’s daughter, and tomorrow it might be another type of person. Our homeland defense is better defined as training our children about dedication to God and country. If we arm our children with Truth and Strength, they will be less likely to turn against us.
