Arising as a common law theory, the Castle Doctrine established the understanding that a citizen has the right to defend their legal place of residence with the use of up to deadly force against an intruder. If the use of force rather than fleeing was reasonable, the citizen is free from prosecution since the force was utilized in a self-defense manner. Therefore, the doctrine was meant to deter crime and provide public safety through empowering citizens to protect their life and property. “Castle doctrine laws support, and, by their extension serve to promote, the defensive use of firearms by private citizens” (Paquette-Boots, Bihari & Elliott, 2009). For this reason, pro-gun control advocates see the Castle Doctrine and the expanded lethal self-defense rights as detrimental towards safety, particularly in high crime and urban …show more content…
This is because life is precious and an integral part of the relationship between God and humanity since we are made in His image. “Whoever shed the blood of man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image” (Genesis 9:6, English Standard Version). However, the Word of God does not prohibit the use of violence in cases of self-defense. “If a thief is found breaking in and is struck so that he dies, there shall be no bloodguilt for him” (English Standard Version). Therefore, one can reconcile murder and self- defense by understanding the concept of self-defense as a God commanded obligation to protect one’s life and the life of others through a proportional punishment. In contrast, murder is allowing the heart to be swayed towards sin and an act against the divine image of God. “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord” (Romans 12:19, English Standard Version). For this reason, the punishment for murder is capital