What to Do About the Dreamer? A Theological Evaluation of Dreams and Visions That Aid Muslim Conversions to Christianity

Abstract

There are increasing reports of dream or vision experiences that significantly influence or aid Muslim conversions to Christianity. These experiences elicit many questions about how one should evaluate, receive, affirm, or reject them, and they have led some to conclusions that are biblically and theologically problematic, particularly regarding the doctrine of revelation. This dissertation evaluates the issue biblically, historically, and theologically, and locates these experiences within the doctrine of revelation affirmed by Christians in the tradition of the Protestant Reformation and the Evangelical movement, using the traditional categories of general and special revelation, to provide needed biblical parameters and answer common questions. This dissertation contends that God is using dreams and visions today as special acts of providence to guide Muslims to the gospel and Christian conversion. They are “signs and wonders” events that fit within the “miracle” subcategory of special revelation. God does not use them to convey new authoritative Word revelations, and they should never be considered necessary or sufficient.