Surah 57:27
"Then in their footsteps We followed up with Our messengers, and We followed up with Jesus, son of Mary, and gave him the Gospel, and placed in the hearts of those who followed him kindness and mercy. But monasticism, they originated it. We did not prescribe it for them. (It) only (arose out of their) seeking the approval of God. Yet they did not observe it as it should have been observed. So We gave those of them who believed their reward, but many of them were wicked."
Friendship with Christians
Supporting Verses
Surah 5:82 → "Certainly you will find that the most violent of people in enmity to the believers are the Jews and the idolaters. Certainly you will find that the closest of them in affection to the believers are those who say, ‘We are Christians.’ That is because (there are) priests and monks among them, and because they are not arrogant."
Opposing Verses
Surah 3:118 → "You who believe! Do not take outsiders as intimate friends. They will not fail to cause you ruin. They desire what you are distressed at. (Their) hatred is already apparent from their mouths, but what their hearts hide is (even) greater. We have already made clear to you the signs, if you are understanding."
Surah 5:51 → "You who believe! Do not take the Jews and the Christians as allies. They are allies of each other. Whoever of you takes them as allies is already one of them. Surely God does not guide the people who are evildoers."
Surah 5:57 → "You who believe! Do not take those who take your religion in mockery and jest as allies, (either) from those who were given the Book before you, or (from) the disbelievers. Guard (yourselves) against God, if you are believers."
The Quran presents varying perspectives on the relationship between Muslims and Christians regarding friendship and alliance. Certain verses describe Christians as being the closest in affection to believers, highlighting their kindness. Conversely, other verses instruct believers not to take Christians, along with Jews and other outsiders, as allies or close friends. This presents a contrast in the texts regarding the permissibility and nature of alliances with Christians.