What Would Jesus Think of the NRA: A Modern Debate

The question of what Jesus would think about the National Rifle Association (NRA) has sparked much debate and reflection. While Jesus himself never explicitly addressed gun rights or the NRA in his teachings, analyzing his principles, historical context, and modern interpretations provides fascinating insights into this contemporary issue.

1. Jesus Still Lives Today

The assertion that Jesus is still alive today intertwines with the spiritual belief that Jesus is present in the hearts and minds of his followers. “Desiring to have some talk with him, they set him a child and had him sit on their lap. Jesus replied, ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.’” (Matthew 18:2-3)

This implies that Jesus' wisdom and teachings are still living and guiding people today. Many modern-day Christians believe that Jesus influences contemporary social issues through the Bible and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

2. Jesus Never Got Involved in Politics

Biblically, Jesus was a pacifist who refused to engage in political matters. “My kingdom is not of this world,” Jesus replied. “If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” (John 18:36)

His focus was on spiritual matters, love, and service. He was often misunderstood and even persecuted for his messages against corruption and hypocrisy. If he were alive today, his principles might lead him to focus on non-violent resolutions and personal responsibility.

3. Violence and Justice in Jesus' Time

Much of the violence in Jesus’ time came from external factors such as Roman oppression, Sadducean and Pharisaic judicial power, and the betrayal by his own people. For instance, the violent deaths of Zacharias (2 Maccabees 15:13) and the Maccabees (2 Maccabees 6:11) reflect the brutality of that era. Jesus himself spoke about non-violence as a core principle, stating, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44).

However, his concern for justice and protection is evident in his suggestions for necessary precautions, as seen in Luke 22:36-38: ‘But now, whoever has a purse is to take it, and likewise a bag. And whoever has no sword is to sell his cloak and buy one.’

4. Jesus and the NRA: A Modern Perspective

The NRA promotes the right to keep and bear arms under the guise of self-defense, protection against tyranny, and hunting. Jesus, in his times, would have faced similar issues with the oppressive regimes of the Roman Empire. Therefore, it would be reasonable to assume that Jesus would support the capacity for self-defense and protection against violence.

However, his teachings also emphasize moderation and self-control. “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them. Then come and offer your gift (Matthew 5:23-24).

Jesus would likely see the NRA as a non-profit organization teaching essential life skills to the public. His concern would be that such organizations are not misused for harmful purposes and that the principles of love and peace are upheld.

5. Criticism and Polarization

The contrast between the NRA and organizations like Planned Parenthood highlights differing views. The NRA focuses on self-protection and constitutional rights, while Planned Parenthood is often the subject of criticism for its role in abortion. The viewpoint that Jesus would support the NRA comes from viewing it as a non-violent, self-defense-focused organization.

Conversely, many argue that the NRA is part of a culture that glorifies violence and has led to numerous mass shootings and gun violence. Views on the NRA and its alignment with Jesus' teachings often divide along political and social lines.

Therefore, while Jesus would probably support the right to self-defense, he would also emphasize the importance of peace, love, and non-violence. The NRA’s mission would need to align with these principles to gain full acceptance in a framework based on Jesus' teachings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jesus would likely view the NRA with mixed feelings. On the one hand, the organization promotes the defense of individuals and communities against perceived threats, which aligns with his principle of self-protection in case of violence. On the other hand, he would likely criticize the glorification of violence and the potential misuse of firearms for harmful purposes.

Christianity, as a religion emphasizing love, peace, and forgiveness, inherently requires a balanced view of self-defense and violence. The NRA, in this context, would need to ensure that its principles are in line with these teachings.