Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 4
When Elam asks about a gun confiscation law, the men respond, “they can have our guns, but they would have to take the bullets first,” and even propose hiding unregistered weapons; what does that moment reveal about what they believe is worth killing for, and how does that collide with Jesus’ “put your sword in its place”?
Another way to ask: When they talk about hiding guns and refusing to give up bullets, what does that show they think is worth killing for? How does that clash with Jesus saying, “put your sword away”?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
That moment reveals they believe protecting gun rights (and the power to resist by force) is worth violent resistance—even against authorities. It collides with Jesus’ command to put away the sword and with the broader call to overcome evil with good rather than with coercion.
- Elam asks if they would “submit and turn over your guns” if a law banned them.
- The men respond, “they can have our guns, but they would have to take the bullets first,” and they “laughed again.”
- Another man admits a plan to deceive: they have “registered guns” and “other guns that aren’t registered… we just give them the guns that are registered.”
- Elam’s reaction shows moral collision: “Okay, we’re Christian people. How does that blend with the teachings of Jesus?”
- Elam cites Jesus’ words directly: “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword” (Matt. 26:52-53).
- He also stresses apostolic teaching: “overcome evil with good… it’s not with guns.”