There are many people out there who believe that martial arts and Christianity don`t go together. I was even told this once by a minister on Okinawa, this caused me to question whether or not I could be a Christian and still practice my karate. Lets examine some facts from the bible. One very classic example where God used a martial artist is David and Goliath. David was a common man, a sheepherder, yet he was an expert with a sling, which he used regularly to protect his flock. The skill and knowledge it took to use that sling effectively made it a martial art. God used this young man with his martial skill to face off with Goliath the Philistine giant. This was such a spectacle, that all the Philistine army came to watch, while the Israelite army on David's side was able to sneak around behind them. Everyone was in shock when David killed Goliath and that's when the Israelites moved in to kill the Philistines. In this case Daniel was fighting for his country and his people. There are many stories in the bible where god used someone's martial arts ability for his purpose. Even Jesus himself found it necessary to kick butt and take names when he found the people buying and selling in the temple. How many times have you heard your instructor say " there is no first strike in karate " or " defense not offense " this attitude goes hand in hand with what we learn in the bible. The martial arts themselves are not inherently evil, although some people misuse them just like anything else. If a man uses a baseball bat to rob someone, does that mean all baseball bats are evil ? Of course that's ridiculous, but that's the same type of thinking some people use with the martial arts. Christians are robbed, raped, beaten, and killed every day. Have you ever seen anywhere in the bible where it says we as Christians are not supposed to defend ourselves, our families, or our country ? In fact there are many instances in the Bible where groups and individuals had to defend themselves, much like David did to defend his people. There is a dividing line in the bible, and from what I have read I believe it depends whether it is religious persecution or an attack on your person, family, or country. Some classic examples of religious persecution are : When Daniel was thrown into the lions den, and Shadrak, Meshak, and Abendigo were thrown into the furnace, they did not have to lift a finger, because they held fast to their faith in Christ he protected them. The bible does say to turn the other cheek, but if you look at the context of how that phrase is used, I believe it means not to sweat the little things. Every situation does not require a physical response, and trusting in God is always your best defense, but also remember God helps those who help themselves. Can you imagine being killed, going before God and saying " God why did you let me die, I was praying to be rescued " and God answers " why do you think I gave you those martial arts abilities " . Whether it be in your everyday life, a self defense situation, or just practice, we should always put god first. I am reminded of Psalms 144:1 that says: Blessed is the Lord my strength, that teacheth my hands to war and my fingers to fight.
[http://www.geocities.com/colosseum/bench/6102/christian.doc]
