Keeping a Firearm for Protection -Would it be fitting for a Christian to keep a firearm, such as a handgun or a rifle, for protection against humans?

While Christians may take reasonable steps to ensure their personal security, they do so within the framework of the Bible principles.  These advise against the use of carnal weapons, such as handguns, rifles, or other firearms, for protection against other humans.  Consider the following:  

In Jehovah's eyes, life-especially human life-is sacred.  The psalmist David knew that  Jehovah "is the source of life."  (Psalm 36:9)  Hence, if a Christian chooses to take reasonable measures to defend himself or his property, he would do everything in his power to avoid taking a human life and becoming bloodguilty.  -Deuteronomy 22:8; Psalm 51:14. 

Although using any number of objects could lead to incurring bloodguilt, guns make it easier to kill someone-accidentally or deliberately.  Moreover, if an attacker-who may already be tense -sees that the other person has a firearm, the situation is very likely to escalate and a death might result.  

When Jesus told his followers to equip themselves with swords on the final night of his life on earth, he did not have protection in mind.  (Luke 22:36, 38 )  Rather, Jesus had them bring a sword for an object lesson to teach them not to resort to violence, even when confronted by an armed crowd.  (Luke 22:52)  After Peter wielded one of the swords against the high priest's slave, Jesus commanded Peter:  "Return your sword to its place."  Then Jesus stated a fundamental truth, a principle that guides  his followers to this day: "All those who take up the sword will perish by the sword." -Matthew 26:51, 52.  

Next time:  Keeping a Firearm for Protection 

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