Bible and Guns
Partial Sermon: FULL PDF HERE
1 Samuel 13:19-22
It seems each time there is a mass shooting, like the February 14th shooting in Parkland Florida, the news media is right there to add fuel to the burning issue of gun control. The media thrives on stories of gun related violence.
Last week’s public debates about guns, both at the White House and at CNN’s Florida Town Hall, were emotionally charged and highly contentious events. Without a doubt, gun violence is epidemic.
I think it is a good idea to re-examine gun laws and consider if there may be some revisions that should to be made. We should also check if there are current gun laws that are not being enforced.
In this sermon let’s consider what God has to say about this. What does the Bible say about Christians and weapons?
I. A DISARMED PEOPLE
It has been said, “God, Guns, and Guts Made America Great.” Some think it strange to use the word “God” and “guns” in the same sentence in a positive sense. Yet, I believe history confirms that statement to be true. The American Revolution would never have happened with gun control.
Consider the following quote:
“This year will go down in history. For the first time, a civilized nation has full gun registration! Our streets will be safer, our police more efficient, and the world will follow our lead into the future!” Adolph Hitler said that in 1935 as the Nazi’s gained control of Germany. WW2 started four years later!
II. A DEFENSIVE POLICY
A. After King Saul was killed in battle by a Philistine archer (1 Sam. 31:3), David initiated a policy to arm and train the populace. Notice 2 Samuel 1:18— Also he bade them teach the children of Judah the use of the bow: behold, it is written in the book of Jasher.
B. What about the sixth commandment, “Thou shalt not kill”? (Ex. 20:13). Jesus interpreted this to mean murder (Mt. 19:16-18).
- Ex. 21:12-16—God authorizes capital punishment
- Ex. 22:2—God authorizes self-defense. Someone noted— “God made some men big and some men small, but Samuel Colt made all men the same size.”
- Ex. 23:20-33—God approves of the fighting of wars (Ps. 144:1).
Partial Sermon: FULL PDF HERE
