Live the Quran through character and service
“It is our time to hold the Quran up and expound on what's in the book.”
Muslims must use Quran-guided knowledge, balance, and common sense to master their appetites, reject blind complicity with injustice, and embody Islam through daily character and service.
The khutbah in 7 steps
- Defines being ruled by jinn as being controlled by unchecked appetites and desires.
- Connects Ramadan and Quranic guidance with self-control, balance, and questioning blind obedience.
- Calls religious and political leaders to justice, rational judgment, and accountability.
- Reminds listeners that death is near and urges daily repentance, good deeds, and helping others.
- Challenges Muslims to change their environments, strengthen community relationships, and meet beyond Friday.
- Urges believers to recognize Islam as Allah's favor and live the Quran through character and manners.
- Uses Abu Bakr's story to argue that Islam cannot be purchased and must be embraced sincerely.
In the khateeb's words
“And if you don't have the knowledge to rule yourself. To have the balance in your life. Then you will be ruled by your jinn. By your appetites.”
“If I get up here every Friday and just say things that don't respect your intelligence, say things to you that are not true, you're supposed to correct me.”
“it is our time to hold the quran up and expound on what's in the book but more so to live it as a daily life in our character with our good deeds with our mannerism”
For the dinner table
The khateeb described being ruled by “jinn” as being ruled by unchecked appetites and desires. He reminded us to use knowledge, balance, and good sense rather than following people blindly, and to respectfully correct mistakes. Each day is a blessing and a reminder that life is short, so we should improve our conduct, help our neighbors, and carry Islam into the wider community. He encouraged stronger relationships and more regular community meetings beyond Friday. Finally, he urged us to see guidance to Islam as Allah's favor and to live the Quran through our character and good deeds.
- What is one appetite or habit you want to practice controlling this week?
- How can our family help someone outside our home?
- What would it look like to live the Quran through our manners tomorrow?
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