Ep 7. Johnny Get Your Gun

The show "7th Heaven" is a family drama series that follows the lives of the Camden family, headed by Reverend Eric Camden (Stephen Collins) and his wife Annie Camden (Catherine Hicks). In season 3 episode 7, titled "Johnny Get Your Gun," the family faces a new challenge as they debate whether or not their son should own a gun.

As the episode begins, Simon (David Gallagher) and Ruthie (Mackenzie Rosman) are playing with toy guns, which prompts their older brother Matt (Barry Watson) to suggest that they learn how to properly handle firearms. However, their father Eric is hesitant and argues that guns have no place in their household. Meanwhile, their mother Annie is more open to the idea as she feels it is important for their son to learn how to responsibly use a gun.

The debate becomes more pressing when Johnny (Tyler Hoechlin), a teenage boy who lives across the street, asks Eric if he can loan him a gun to go hunting. Eric is hesitant to fulfill Johnny's request, but Johnny's father (Tom McTigue) tells Eric that he has given his son permission to use their own guns. This exchange of words sparks the Camdens to further consider the issue of gun ownership.

As the family discusses the issue, they bring in a local police officer to provide his opinion on the matter. The officer tells the Camdens about the dangers of guns and how even responsible gun owners can still run into trouble. He advises them to exercise caution and think carefully before making a decision about gun ownership.

Despite the warnings, Johnny remains determined to own a gun and even tries to convince Matt to purchase one for him. Matt, who has always been the more responsible and level-headed of the Camden children, refuses to give in to Johnny's request. He realizes that owning a gun is a serious responsibility and that someone like Johnny, who has a history of making irresponsible decisions, should not be trusted with one.

In the end, the Camdens come to a decision that reflects their values of responsibility and caution. They encourage Johnny to take a gun safety course and learn how to properly handle a gun before they will consider loaning him one. They also stress the importance of respect for firearms and the serious implications that come with owning one.

Overall, "Johnny Get Your Gun" is a thought-provoking episode that raises important questions about gun ownership and responsibility. The Camdens are portrayed as a family that values caution and responsibility above all else, and their decision to carefully consider Johnny's request to own a gun reflects this. The episode offers a balanced perspective on the issue of guns, acknowledging their value as a tool for hunting and self-defense while also emphasizing the importance of respecting and being responsible with them.