Before abortion doctor George Tiller was laid to rest June 6, the issue of guns in church took an interesting wrinkle when a Louisville, Ky., church announced it was inviting people to wear firearms to a June 27 service.

Planned long before Tiller’s murder, the day will include a handgun raffle, patriotic music and information on gun safety.

Noting they are going to celebrate the nation’s upcoming birthday, the pastor said, "We’re not ashamed to say that there would be a strong belief in God and firearms—without that this country wouldn’t be here." (Fortunately, guns must be unloaded and private security will check visitors at the door.)

Of course, the relevance of the Kentucky observance is the fact that Tiller was gunned down May 31 at his Lutheran church in Wichita, Kan. Seems like a couple weeks ago (instead of three months) that we heard about the shooting of Illinois pastor Fred Winters. The director of the Christian Security Network says there have been 15 acts of violence against churches and six deaths this year.

Considering the differing social/political perspectives of these two congregations, these shootings should concern every church leader. In a polarized society where people feel free to vent their frustrations, and sometimes mentally-disturbed individuals use churches as easy targets, it is easy to look over one’s shoulder and muse, "It really could happen here."

Before congregations go rushing to employ armed security guards, though, it may be time to stop and take a deep breath. The difference between the potential of something happening and the probability of it taking place can be miles apart.

There are those whose views are molded by their experience. Last year, Colorado Springs Pastor Brady Boyd recommended the step at a security conference his church hosted for Colorado churches.

"We've had contemporary experience that can help others," Boyd said, referring to the slayings of two sisters in December of 2007 at New Life Church before a security guard killed the gunman. "We just don't want this to happen anywhere else."

However, churches contemplating using guards may need to examine whether they can even arm personnel. For example, Atlanta Journal-Constitution editor Jim Galloway says state law in Georgia bans firearms from houses of worship.

Just as important is consideration of what message a congregation wants to send visitors and potential members. Does it want to be known as the place where an intruder, even a violent one, was shot?

Another question, based on the scriptural precedent of John 18:10-11—where Jesus told Peter to put away his sword—is whether the church should be in the business of using deadly force.

After a gunman killed 13 people and then himself in Binghamton, N.Y., in April, the pastor of a church there said, "We need to change the culture of violence in this country."

Still, as a supporter of the autonomy of the local church, I also believe this is a question best decided by each congregation. And, as various guides to dealing with gun violence show, there are numerous issues that go into the planning and implementation of a security policy.

Perhaps the best place to start dealing with the issue of possible violence at your church is where every other weighty issue deserves to be measured: the prayer room.