The Duggars have found themselves surrounded by controversy yet again.
The 19 Kids and Counting family set the Internet on fire after posting a few pictures from Christmas Day. Specifically, the one that got people riled up was a photo of their son, Jedidiah, 16, showing off his new... shotgun. It didn't take long for America's ongoing gun debate to immediately head to the comment section of the Facebook photo.
Catherine wrote, "Oh dear. Only in America is it appropriate to give a kid a gun for Christmas," while Phillip echoed similar sentiments, adding, "This is so disgusting. This shows what is wrong with America nowadays."
While there was plenty criticism, the Duggars had supporters rally behind them as well.
"What's wrong with this country? People that complain about this picture!! Gun use and safety starts at home!! Proud American right there!" Norman exclaimed. Clearly, many folks agreed as this was the most-liked comment out of the bunch.
"There is NOTHING wrong with guns. It's HOW they are mis-used that's the problem," wrote Lacy.
"I live in the uk and in all my 42 years I have NEVER even seen a gun in real life. So glad that we have a completely different approach to guns over here," said Lindsey. "I do love the show tho and wish we weren't so far behind! (Jill and Derek still not even engaged yet!)."
A few users pointed out that Jed got a shotgun, not a handgun, and that firearms can be used responsibly and with a purpose, like hunting, as the Duggars often do.
"He didn't get a hand gun...he got a shot gun! You know, something for hunting with...I don't get it...All you people who complain about him getting a gun must be vegans," said Sara. Mary Jo followed suit, writing, "My Lord, they hunt you know. Part of the area they live in! Give it a break."
Still, many people, like Linda, said it all comes down to the fact that guns are deadly in the hands of kids: "Worst present ever. I don't care how much gun safety they teach their kids. All it takes is one time of not locking it up properly for one of the dozens of curious young kids in that house to get a hold of it and have an accident. Why take that chance? Don't understand why a Christian family who values life would want to own devices that were specifically designed to destroy it."
This isn't the first time the Duggars have created a stir with a photo of a gun. In May, a similar firestorm went off when Ben Seewald posted a picture of Jessa Duggar holding a machine gun, writing, “My AWESOME girlfriend. #DontmesswithJessa.”
The Duggars have been very vocal on their TLC show about supporting the second amendment, which states that individuals have the right to keep and bear arms.
Patriarch Jim Bob has repeatedly expressed that any of his kids who have handled a gun have taken a safety class and that their guns are kept in a safe, which is only accessible to a few family members.
“We believe it is important for children to learn safety about guns and knives," he said. "To learn how to use them properly and to learn not to use them to hurt others but to use them as a tool.”
The Duggars have yet to comment on the latest photo, but they seem nothing but proud of their son.
On the family Facebook page they posted a birthday message to Jed on Dec. 30 writing what "a deep love for God, and a desire to make a difference in this world" he has. "Jed we see that you are diligent to share your faith and what Jesus has done in your life."
