John Piper Is Dead Wrong on Gun Ownership

[GURPS]

John Piper Is Dead Wrong on Gun Ownership


Reading this article by iconic Christian author John Piper, in which he discusses the theology of gun ownership, I find myself reminded of the above allegory. Piper's admonition regarding self-defense is that we ought to leave such matters to government, or to God himself. He conflates vengeance with defense, and would have believers set aside both.

I appreciate the spirit motivating Piper's words, but object vehemently to the conclusions he draws. Loving your enemy does not mean, and has never meant, yielding to victimization.

Piper's essay deserves comprehensive point-by-point rebuttal. It has attracted a variety of responses so far. Look for further thoughts here in the coming days.

 

[RPMDAD]

Kind of sums it up for me

 

[tommyjo]

John Piper Is Dead Wrong on Gun Ownership


Piper's admonition regarding self-defense is that we ought to leave such matters to government, or to God himself. He conflates vengeance with defense, and would have believers set aside both.

wow...not only can't you read the source material but neither can your author. The author of the article misses the entire point of the article he is whining about. Here is specifically what Mr. Piper wrote:

The issue is not primarily about when and if a Christian may ever use force in self-defense, or the defense of one’s family or friends. There are significant situational ambiguities in the answer to that question. The issue is about the whole tenor and focus and demeanor and heart-attitude of the Christian life. Does it accord with the New Testament to encourage the attitude that says, “I have the power to kill you in my pocket, so don’t mess with me”? My answer is, No.

 

[GURPS]

that TJ is a matter of opinion ....