The issue of how Christian gun owners should respond to government gun confiscation is a complex one with no simple or definitive answers. As Christians, we are called to submit to governing authorities (Romans 13:1-7) while also protecting life and liberty. With prayerful discernment and wisdom from God’s Word, we can thoughtfully consider various biblical principles that may guide our response.
Pray for Guidance and Discernment
First and foremost, Christian gun owners facing potential gun confiscation should pray for God’s guidance and discernment (James 1:5). We should ask God to search our hearts and reveal any wrong motives or sinful anger. We should pray for wisdom to know how best to honor Christ in our response. Praying for governing leaders is also wise (1 Timothy 2:1-4).
Submit to Governing Authorities
In general, Christians are called to submit to governing authorities which have been instituted by God (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17). However, there may be biblical grounds for respectful civil disobedience if government commands require sin or prohibit good (Acts 5:29). Christian gun owners could nonviolently and respectfully refuse to comply with unjust gun confiscation while being prepared to humbly accept punishment.
Focus on Christ’s Kingdom, Not Politics
As citizens of God’s kingdom, Christians have a heavenly allegiance higher than any earthly nation (Philippians 3:20; 1 Peter 2:11). Christian gun owners can remember that politics are temporal, but faithfulness to Christ brings eternal reward. We can focus less on preserving political rights and more on representing Christ well.
Act With Love, Not Anger
Christian gun owners facing gun confiscation should act with Christ-like love for all people, including enemies (Luke 6:27-36). Hateful speech, violence and hostility have no place in Christian responses. We can speak truth with grace, turning the other cheek rather than retaliating if wronged (Matthew 5:38-42).
Trust God’s Sovereignty
Ultimately, God is sovereign over human governments (Daniel 2:21; Romans 13:1). Christian gun owners can rest in the assurance that God is in control, working all things for our good if we trust and follow Christ (Romans 8:28). Even if rights are lost, God promises to supply all our needs (Philippians 4:19).
Seek Justice and Life Within Legal Means
Christian gun owners should use legal means such as voting, advocacy, lawsuits and legislation to pursue justice and protect life, if possible (Matthew 5:9; 7:12; 10:16). Working through proper legal channels can help limit need for civil disobedience. We recognize that laws allowing weapons for self-defense have value.
Be Willing to Sacrifice Rights for Others
Following Jesus requires setting aside personal rights for the good of others (Philippians 2:1-4). Christian gun owners could be willing to sacrifice gun rights if doing so clearly prevented loss of life. Of course, wisdom is needed, since restricting rights does not guarantee increased safety.
Prepare to Practice Biblical Self-Defense Ethically
The Bible permits self-defense and protection of others in grave danger (Luke 22:35-38; Exodus 22:2-3). Christian gun owners facing gun confiscation could continue practicing ethical self-defense through less lethal weapons. Or they may determine to use lawful lethal force only when absolutely necessary to save lives.
Avoid Unlawful Violent Resistance
Christian gun owners should not unlawfully and violently resist governing authorities, even if rights are denied (Romans 13:1-5). Following Old Testament war texts as models for modern political resistance improperly ignores Christ’s teachings focused on peace, mercy and non-retaliation.
Be Cautious About Militant Group Involvement
Christian gun owners facing gun confiscation should use great caution before joining any militant group, as these groups often promote unbiblical anger or even hatred. While lawful community defense groups may have merit, unlawful militias must be avoided, along with any groups driven by racism or political extremism rather than true justice.
Use Legal Means to Change Unjust Laws
In addition to respectful civil disobedience, Christian citizens have biblical grounds to use lawful structures like courts and legislatures to change unjust laws restricting legitimate gun ownership (Proverbs 11:14; Matthew 10:16). Christian gun owners facing confiscation could advocate for legal reforms protecting life and liberty.
Consider Moving if Laws Remain Unjust
If gun restrictions make ethically defending life impossible in a certain region, Christian gun owners may prayerfully consider moving (Acts 8:1-4; 17:10). Christians have often fled from injustice when other options failed. Moving may allow one to live under and support more just laws.
Remain Open to Suffering Unjustly
Following Jesus requires willingness to suffer unjustly as he did, while trusting God for defense and vindication (1 Peter 2:21-24). Christian gun owners facing confiscation can remember that even persecution is an opportunity to rely on God’s strength and share Christ’s sufferings (Philippians 3:10).
In summary, Christian gun owners facing potential government gun confiscation have no easy choices, but can prayerfully seek God’s wisdom while focusing on faithfulness to Jesus above any political rights or identity. With guidance from Scripture and the Spirit, we can respond in ways that honor Christ and preserve life while also seeking legal reform and trusting God when rights are denied. Above all, we are citizens of Christ’s eternal kingdom called to trust and obey him no matter the consequences.
