Jesus might not have carried a gun, but his followers would have

Rev. Jeff Liebmann’s Nov. 17, letter “People of faith don’t cling to guns with their religion” offers ethical and biblically flavored comments. I am obliged to follow suit.

I suspect that much of today’s gun control (and pacifism) rationale stems from a dubious view of man’s nature.

The Bible endlessly portrays man as evil (Jeremiah 17:9). Yet some reject this. They view man as basically good. And if man is good, he should be trusted. Therefore it would follow that guns are not needed in such a safe, peaceful environment.

If so, gun control advocates should be consistent and not lock their doors or use computer passwords. Social humanism should have made good on its claims centuries ago.

Escapists see earth as a utopian paradise. But if wishes were horses, beggars would ride. Reality can be so inconvenient.

As Jesus was preparing to depart this world, he told his disciples to buy and carry a sword (Luke 22:36). Jesus was not naive. Self-defense is needed in a sinful world. Very evil men would later be allowed to kill him. Jesus was not a pacifist or opposed to self-defense weapons.

I’m thankful for the Second Amendment, protecting us since 1791.

This story was originally published December 7, 2017 at 1:31 PM with the headline "Jesus might not have carried a gun, but his followers would have."