How should a Christian respond to mass shootings?

Answer

Mass shootings have unfortunately become a common occurrence in our world. From concerts to schools to places of worship, these tragic events leave us deeply affected and searching for solutions. As Christians, we should seek guidance from the Bible on how to address such violence.

First and foremost, we must remember that our hope lies in God. As stated in Psalm 39:7, “And now, Lord, what wait I for? My hope is in thee.” In times of tragedy, despair, and anxiety, it can be easy to lose sight of this truth. We may even question how a good and loving God could permit such evil to exist. However, it is crucial to understand that God is not the source of evil in the world. As mentioned in 1 John 1:5, “This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” While we are reminded of our sinful nature in Genesis 3:1-7 and Romans 5:12, God can turn the evil we commit into something that glorifies Him. Romans 8:28 reassures us, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Even in the darkest of times, God remains in control, and we can place our trust in Him.

Psalm 46:1–3 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling” (ESV). This passage serves as a reminder that even when our world appears to be crumbling, God is constantly by our side, and we can seek shelter in Him as stated in Psalm 23:4. Let us turn to Him in prayer.

Seek comfort in His presence.

Secondly, we should demonstrate compassion to those impacted by mass shootings (Matthew 22:34-40). Displaying compassion towards others is a way to love our neighbors as ourselves. We can contribute money or resources to organizations that aid victims and their families, volunteer at a local community center, or simply lend a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on for someone who is grieving. Regardless of our choice, we should be the first to exhibit compassion and kindness to others in times of tragedy.

Thirdly, we should pray for those who commit atrocious crimes. This may appear counterintuitive, but as Christians, we have faith in the power of prayer and God’s ability to transform hearts and minds (Ezekiel 36:26;John 3:3,5).

In Matthew 5:43–44, Jesus states, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Even though it may be challenging to love those who commit atrocious crimes, we are instructed to do so nonetheless. By loving our enemies, we shine as a light in the darkness of the world «Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. », (Matthew 5:16).

Lastly, we should strive to prevent future mass shootings. This involves advocating for sensible laws, supporting mental health initiatives, strengthening defenses around potential targets, and fostering a culture of nonviolence.

Proverbs 24:11–12 states, “Rescue those who are being taken away to death; hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter. If you say, ‘Behold, we did not know this,’ does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who keeps watch over you

Your soul knows it, and will He not repay each person according to their work?” This passage reminds us that we have a responsibility to speak out against injustice in all its forms. If we sit back and do nothing, then we have blood on our hands (cf. Ezekiel 3:18).

Mass shootings are an unfortunate reality in our world. As Christians, we must respond with love, compassion, and action. We should seek God for comfort and guidance, offer support to those impacted by mass shootings, pray for the redemption of those who commit heinous crimes, and strive to prevent these tragedies in the future.

While we may never fully comprehend why tragedies like mass shootings occur, we can find comfort in the promise of Revelation 21:4, which states, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” One day, all pain, suffering, and evil will cease, and believers will be reunited with their heavenly Father.