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.
Yet you should reject a blood transfusion, because the symbol of life is more important than the actual life right?
[Footnote.] * A Christian might decide to own a firearm (such as a rifle or a shotgun) for hunting animals for food or for protection against wild animals. When not in use, though, such weapons are best kept unloaded, perhaps even disassembled, and safely locked away. Where gun ownership is illegal, restricted, or regulated in some other way, Christians obey the law.—Romans 13:1. [End of Footnote.]
Very patronizing tone don't you think? Like we needed permission first to these things? Like a previous poster said, if your home is being invaded by rapists and thieves your gun isn't gonna be much help disassembled in the garage is it?
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.
No evidence for this at all. Jesus tells them to take a sword with them. And if they dont have one to sell their cloak and buy one. If i were alive in Judea in AD30 you can be your life i'll be carrying a sword at all times. Especially in a garden at night. Wild animals my ass, robbers and murderers galore back then.
Christians consider life to be far more valuable than material things. “Life does not result from the things [a man] possesses.” (Luke 12:15) Thus, if a mild tongue fails to stop an armed robber, wise Christians heed the principle embodied in Jesus’ words: “Do not resist the one who is wicked.” It may even require that we give up our inner and outer garments, so to speak. (Matthew 5:39, 40; Luke 6:29) *
Yes, if a rapist wants to take your wife or daughter, and he doesnt stop when you ask him nicely - you should just let him. Heaven forbid you might be bloodguilty for caving his head in. I'd have zero guilt on my conscience for putting a rapist 10 feet under.
[Footnote.] * Regarding the matter of defending oneself against rape, see the article “How to Prevent Rape” in the March 8, 1993, issue of Awake! [End of Footnote.]
The best strategy, of course, is prevention. If we shun “the showy display of [our] means of life” and are known by our neighbors as peace-loving Witnesses of Jehovah, we may avoid being targeted by violent criminals.—1 John 2:16; Proverbs 18:10.
Yes, it's your fault for having nice things in the first place brothers! No wonder they wanted to rob you. If only you'd live simply and sent all your cash to us this wouldnt have happened.
Christians respect others’ consciences. (Romans 14:21) If it became known that a member of the congregation kept a gun for protection against humans, some fellow believers might be shocked, even stumbled. Love moves us to put others’ interests ahead of our own, even when that means putting aside what we may feel is a legal right.—1 Corinthians 10:32, 33; 13:4, 5.
In other words, if some interfering busybody in the congregation doesn't like you owning a gun you should get rid of it. Put others interests ahead of our own? What sort of life is that?
Christians strive to be exemplary. (2 Corinthians 4:2; 1 Peter 5:2, 3) After receiving Scriptural counsel, a Christian who continues to keep a gun for protection against other humans could not be considered exemplary. He would therefore not qualify for responsibilities or special privileges in the congregation. The same applies to a Christian who continues to carry a firearm as part of his secular work. How much better to seek other employment! *
Same for sporting a beard. Its your choice, but just so you know, you wont be considered to be an exemplary christian even though you may be the most loving, giving, kind person on the planet.
IDIOTS!!