Growing Up Muslim in America
Nabeel Qureshi was born in San Diego, California, in 1983, to Pakistani immigrant parents devoted to their Ahmadi Muslim faith. He grew up immersed in Islamic teachings, memorizing Quranic chapters and vigorously defending his beliefs against other religions, especially Christianity. However, the events of September 11, 2001, challenged his understanding of Islam, leading him to question his faith for the first time.
Encountering Christianity at University
During his time at Old Dominion University in Virginia, Nabeel met David Wood, a Christian who introduced him to the Bible. Intrigued yet skeptical, Nabeel engaged in numerous debates with David, convinced that the Bible was corrupted. Yet, as they delved deeper into historical claims, Nabeel found the evidence for Christianity compelling.
God Speaks Through Dreams and Visions
Despite his initial confidence in Islam, Nabeel's beliefs began to waver, especially concerning Jesus' death and resurrection. He found himself in a profound intellectual and spiritual crisis. One pivotal day, overwhelmed by the weight of his doubts, he laid the Quran and the Bible before him, seeking comfort. He later recounted, 'I turned to the Qur'an, but there was no comfort there... It felt like a dead book.' In contrast, the Bible spoke directly to his heart, offering solace in Matthew 5:4: 'Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.'
Nabeel fervently prayed for divine clarity, and God answered through visions and dreams, including a vivid image of a narrow doorway, symbolizing the path to God. He realized these supernatural encounters were an invitation to embrace the gospel. Despite the immense personal cost, including strained relationships with his family and friends, Nabeel decided to follow Jesus.
Life Transformed by Following Jesus
His conversion marked a new chapter in his life. Baptized by his friend David, Nabeel became a passionate Christian apologist, dedicating his life to sharing the message of Jesus. He joined Ravi Zacharias International Ministries and authored influential books like 'Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus.' Even amid his battle with terminal cancer, Nabeel remained steadfast, declaring, 'All suffering is worth it to follow Jesus. He is that amazing.' Nabeel's journey from Islam to Christianity underscores the transformative power of Jesus, who leads those who seek Him with an open heart to a place of peace and purpose.
