If we were to wave a magic wand to make all guns in America disappear and all subsequently imported guns instantly vaporize, would we forever resolve the issue of gun violence in America? Yes. The guns certainly help the shooters.
However, would this solve all violence in general in America and its schools?
Is it reasonable to conclude that although gun violence will decrease to zero, knife/sword violence will increase?
Consider the case of China, one country where guns are illegal. Only the government sectors such as police and military have access to guns. On March 1, 2014, there was a terrorist attack in the Kunming railway station where 29 people were killed and 143 injured. The weapons used were not guns, but long knives.
Is there anything inherently evil about a gun? Is there anything inherently evil about knives? Such physical items are morally neutral, but will be used for good or for evil depending on the attitude and character of the user. In the case of guns, an evil man or child can shoot up a theatre, school, or neighborhood. But a gun in the hands of a police officer can be used to stop the killing rampage of that shooter in action. A knife can be used to cut up vegetables to feed a family or those in need. But it can also be used to torture and kill a human being.
The point here is that the root cause or primary source of the evil and violence isn't the gun or knife itself, but the forces influencing the killers. Take away the guns, and knives will take their place. The ultimate question is, how can we take away the murder in our hearts that will grab whatever weapon is available? (1)
What is the source of evil? What is the Solution? In other words, what message to our nation can change the hearts of potential killers so that they change the way they think? How can they/we experience perfect Love that casts out the fear, hatred, depression, pride, and evil from which murder comes?
I recommend my article here as a continuation for our understanding...
(1) For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
Mark 7:21-23 ESV
