Hello,  
I do not know if this is the right forum for this but I am a recently converted Christian and a martial artist. In this martial arts we don't believe in ANYTHING that would violate Christianity except I don't know if it is ok for a Christian to defend himself or someone else. I know Matthew 5:38 but I can't believe that Christ would command you not to defend yourself. (I do believe it should be for self defense only.) Can you please help me with this dilemma?  Thank you,  Ted  

Lynette wrote:  Dear Ted:  I agree that Christian's should be able to defend themselves. I know that Christ said to turn the other cheek, but I think He meant that in the context of going the extra mile for someone in need rather than passively accepting a beating from someone. Jesus walked away or slipped out of the crowd when they wanted to kill Him. Paul claimed his Roman citizenship when they were going to throw him in jail. Paul was lowered out a window in a basket to escape those who wanted to murder him. I think these are examples of escaping dangerous situations & "defending oneself" when an imminent threat to one's life is at hand. They didn't know the martial arts, but David in the Old Testament, certainly defended himself and the nation of Israel when armies tried to destroy them.I advise you to be cautious about your knowledge and skill since you have the ability to easily kill someone. I am also concerned about the mindset the martial arts training taught you regarding "killing people".  I would encourage you to renew your mind according to Scriptures.   Christ taught us to love our enemies and to do good to those who persecute us. The teaching in martial arts probably contradicts this biblical mindset towards people.I understand that most martial arts programs include New Age or Eastern religious teachings. You want to investigate what was taught and gain a Christian perspective instead.  This book will help you grow in your understanding of cults & it contains a chapter on martial arts: Larson's New Book of Cults by Bob Larson.Anyway, I am so glad you have found Christ! I hope you are in a solid Bible church and that someone is discipling you. May you grow more and more in the knowledge of Christ. May you discover His presence and power more deeply in your life everyday. If you'd like recommendations on Christian books to read for your spiritual growth such as Know What You Believe by Paul Little, look at hoyweb.com's resources page for more suggestions. Also, check out Pastor Ray's books, especially What a Christian Believes; An Easy to Read Guide to Understanding  by Pastor Ray Pritchard.  Let me know if I can be of further   assistance to you. Please email Pastor Ray Pritchard for further advice on this topic. God bless you!  
Lynette