But this is the expressed intention (converting people to Christianity),
No, they are going in to preach Christ crucified ('go ye into all the world and preach the gospel...'). To most, this will be a stumbling block or foolishness. Only God can open someone's eyes and change their heart. No one has ever been argued into the Kingdom. God does the converting.
...and this is definitely how it will be seen...especially by the Islamic groups already hostile to the US presense.
You are probably correct. Christianity is an offensive religion. It doesn't threaten bodily harm in this world, but it's message is clear:
John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
And we are privileged, and honored, to bring these words of life to the world.
No, they are going in to preach Christ crucified ('go ye into all the world and preach the gospel...'). To most, this will be a stumbling block or foolishness.
Huh? So this means the intention of evangelists in NOT that people should be converted to Christianity? Your kidding right?