Bulletproof pulpits?

The Baptist church that I attended growing up had bullet-proof glass near a balcony exit/entrance. I believe that the pulpit was lined with bullet-proof glass also. The pastor had had some threats.

I am part of church security and am always armed. Sometimes I wear body armor to protect speakers/musicians during events. I have protected names people here would recognize. These are the times in which we live. And Christians of old have lived.

I am also part of a national movement to standardize church and LEO to active shooter events. This means that we are working to create a standard response that will be given to police stations all around the country.

We do not need bullet resistant (Nothing is bullet proof) pulpits. We need active security, in the parking lot, in the lobby, in the sanctuary. Gun men will often target the congregation first- and if they are stopped in the parking lot first, then it does not have to be a mass casualty event.

Bullet resistant pulpits will also hinder the message, I believe. Watchful, ready, armed team members placed throughout the congregation, education and preparedness are the answer. Not a pastor behind glass so thick it costs tens of thousands of dollars and reinforces the idea that he is afraid of being shot. Because we are not.

Times are weird. And getting weirder. And the Bible tells us this will be so. The answer, I do not believe, is to hide in bunkers. But to use our God given freedoms to protect the flock, and anyone desiring shelter and protection.

The Lord determines when we go to see Him. Be it at old age, in bed, with our friends and family around us, or surrounded by mass chaos at the pointy end of a bullet. No bullet-proof glass will stop that appointment. On the other hand, it could be the tool used to preserve someone until their actual appointed time. So, whatever.

We already have on a breastplate of righteousness and a shield of faith.....Why not add a bulletproof pulpit just in case?