Yeah, that same thing is happening here in the US also. I was listening to a conversation on talk radio this am that was an interview with a local pastor here in Austin. The pastor was saying that it was perhaps not very wise of Franklin Graham to have labeled all of Islam as a "violent religion" if he wanted to minister to Muslims. The point being that Muslims, like most people, are sensitive to stereotypical accusations made about who they are. And, I think the point is well met. Is that to say that we should be ignorant of the fact that the Koran does advocate violent action against infidels? No! And it is a fact that there are MANY factions in Islam that take that as a affirmation for violence. But look, it's atleast counterproductive to be slinging out broad based labels that will only infuriate to the very Muslims that we are trying to reach out to. It's counterproductive then to the gospel. Imho, we need to be wise as serpents but gentle as doves with this.

Oh, a final note, I have to say that I understand people's hesitation to go to areas dominated by Islamic peoples. Let's face it, there is a very real threat of violence there. But, we know from scripture that there always has been and will continue to be a threat of persecution for the church. I'm inclined to admit that it takes really special people to go into those sorts of areas. It's not for the feignt of heart...that's for certain!! But then again, maybe this is a wake up call. For far too long, the Western church has gone relatively unopposed by violent action. Perhaps that's changing. I don't know. Either way, God will be glorifed and His work WILL be done on the Earth. And for that I am tremendously grateful!

At Students for Christ at my uni (Ballarat) we're trying to organise a mission trip for December. We've got about a dozen people interested, but only three of us have committed, so I agree with you Rob.