Sometimes, matters regarded as peripheral and of little import do intrude upon one’s ability to pursue one’s mission, thus becoming of greater import than initially imagined.
Your church appears to be a little too comfortable with and trusting of governmental edict. I’d think history would point out the potential folly of this. I’d think very recent events would as well.
But, Lombardi’s statement of encouragement regarding impending attempts to restrict 2A rights will stand as is, unaddressed in your estimation.
I regretfully agree with your assessment.
In the US (and perhaps the West in general) over the past half-century..........definitely!!
Elsewhere in the world.....not so much.
The Church does know a thing or two about persecution.