There's been a lot in the news about the shootings at two Colorado churches yesterday. What happened was a horrible tragedy: families and two communities of Believers will be forever scarred. Five people were killed, including the gunman, who was shot by a church member with a concealed weapons permit (working voluntary security detail). The pastor of the megachurch praised the volunteer, suggesting that she saved tens, in not hundreds, of lives. I am left wondering a question with difficult answer.
Would Jesus shoot a murderous gunman?
4 comments:
Scary question. But, He wouldn't have to. His very presence and power would have subdued the gunman. Jabron.
That's cheating.
(Go to the back of the room and think about what you've done.)
Nope...
Good topic for thought. I think God places "Caesar" (the man, the govt, the heat) and other designated authorities to handle such issues. As a security guard, it would be difficult to make a decision NOT to stop someone from murdering innocent people. Most caring people have a strong desire to protect the innocent. I know Jesus wouldn't kill anyone--he let himself BE killed for the sake of all manner of people. But I also think he will be very understanding of disagreement and confusion regarding the best response to unspeakable evil. He calls us to pray for all involved, that much is for sure. I always wonder why a person couldn't be shot in the arm or leg instead, but I'm sure it would take much better aim and would be super difficult to accomplish under pressure packed circumstances. If not for the police, military and other security forces, I think the world would be a chaotic, murderous place. Given free rein, one evil person could kill a lot of people before he decided to stop. Hitler, Stalin, Jim Jones, Jeffrey Daumer, etc.
Post a Comment