Are you safe in your church?

Violence in the House of God is not a new thing.  If you have read the Old Testament you know that the people of God are not immune from the evil intentions of those filled with hatred.  With reports of murderous rampages within the walls of churches in the headlines, it might be time to have a conversation about church security.

We must begin with the acknowledgement that the church opens its doors to those who are emotionally unbalanced and outcast by society.  That alone leaves the church more vulnerable than other places.  The church wants to love them and help them, but sometimes people are simply overcome by wickedness.  It could be the person sitting next to you, or the person you prayed for last week, who snaps when you least expect it.

Some people are intent on killing, stealing and destroying.  That is the mission of the Devil,  his ambassadors and servants.  A plan for physical and spiritual protection is essential for the church.

Prayer is an obvious first line of defense.  Beyond prayer, action is needed to secure the safety of the congregation.  As surely a faith without works is dead, prayer without corresponding action can be equally impotent.  Remember the Scripture about praying your neighbor is warmed and filled?

It is time for the church to have a conversation about self defense.  Designated gun-carrying parishioners should be part of the plan.  Front door security should also be an essential ingredient.  Educating the congregation so they know how to react to an attack has to be part of a good action plan.

Conversations about church security will undoubtedly produce some challenges.  Not everyone will agree, regardless of the plan.  At the end of the day, it is the responsibility of church leadership to develop and implement an effective  security action plan.

The church should remain a sanctuary.

***Gordon Howie is an author and CEO of Life and Liberty Media***

“It’s not about right or left, it’s about Right or Wrong.”

Follow me on Twitter @GordonHowieSD

“friend” me on facebook for daily updates

See more about Texas Longhorn Cattle, Real Estate, Music and Politics at www.ghowie.com

Our mission is to promote Conservative Christian principles, help the hurting and provide truth and information to a lost and dying world