This page is dedicated to Christians everywhere who are interested in Martial Arts. I will not have time or space to expand as I would like so please follow up with the books and verses I reference. This is not intended to be a complete case study. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail me.
What we will look at.
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What should martial arts teach a person?
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How can a Christian be part of a violent sport?
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Is Martial Arts in the Old Testament?
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Are all martial arts based on the religions of the Orient?
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How to pick a martial arts school.
The Christian is called upon by God in 2 Timothy 2:15 to "study" to find and determine those things which are acceptable to God. The worst thing that a Christian can do is to "adopt" as his own the rules of others.
What should martial arts teach a person?
Martial arts is not what you think if your perception comes from Hollywood movies. They do not do the art justice. Martial Arts is to teach a person to be disciplined, mentally alert, self-controlled able to protect/provide for himself and his family and be in good physical condition. These are the same tenets taught to a Christian.
How can a Christian be part of a violent sport?
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."(Ro12:18) and "Turn the other cheek"(Mt 5:38-42) Both of these verses speak of retaliation and vengeance, not protection. Also the "IF" in the first verse states if it is possible than..., if not than you are free to control the situation within Gods design. IF is a conditionally and uncertainty word. A true martial artist is taught to avoid violence and a system of ethics. One does not have to prove himself to anyone, and will avoid compromising places like bars and back alleys. Look at 1Tim 5:8 which teaches that men are expected to meet the needs and provide for the protection of their family. A trained martial artist can disarm a situation without using undue violence, however if your family or daughter is under attack God has given you authority to protect them. Remember in the Old Testament God used force against those who opposed Him and His commandments.
Is martial arts in the Old Testament?
You may not find where Abraham used Go-Ju-Ryu Karate, however the following will draw a few parallels. Remember that these battles were ordained by God, let's look at a few verses. Gideon defeated 120,000 men with his 300 men using various techniques taught in martial arts (Judges 7). In 1 Samuel 13 & 14 Jonathan and his men killed 20 Philistines with only one sword using an empty-handed "death blow". Let's look at the Hebrew work for "dance" and the meaning of the Japanese work "kata" is more the coincidental. From the "kiai" of Joshua (Joshua 6), to the mind-leading of David (1 Samuel 21), Joseph (Genesis 42) and Jacob's sons (Genesis 34), to the "ki/chi" of Samson (Judges 16) we see example after example of traditional concepts and techniques of the martial arts. The 'hara" or "tanden" are spoken of in Genesis 43, Job 32 and Isaiah 11. King David even states that his hands were made for war (Psalm 18 & 144). swift of foot and hand???
Are all martial arts based on the religions of the Orient?
It is true that some of the schools teach the precepts of Zen and the like. However many historical documents show martial arts roots in middle-eastern region around Israel and Egypt. The tower of babble was the focal point for different races languages and the beginning of different customs and religions. Wouldn't it seem also correct to tie many things, martial arts in this case, to that time in history. When the people split into different regions they took with them the customs, training, etc. with them.
How to pick a martial arts school.
Talk to the Sensei and a few of the students. The Sensei should exhibit the same traits as listed in 1Tim, he must have a good heart. Remember martial arts is the use of the hands and feet as a path to the head and the heart. They not only should teach physical coordination and strength, but also discipline and focus. There is no other place in America where a student will come in to class and bow to his teacher and fellow students. The Sensei should teach confidence that allows children to defend themselves, or better, to walk away from a fight and from drugs. You can expect your child to be stronger, with an increase in muscle mass and because of the skills they learn, you can expect the students to have increased flexibility and hand-to-eye coordination. It's really a tremendous, all-around workout. There is to be fun time also, a child just won't participate if he's not having fun. You need a sense of balance for the student to do well.
Make sure the Sensei's credentials come from a recognized, long-standing body, not a mail order place.
Sit in on several classes before making any long term commitments.
How does the Sen-Sei interact with the students. Listen carefully to the values (or lack thereof) espoused by the Sen-Sei. Make sure the school has good changing facilities, safety mats and safety equipment.
Watch out for exorbitant cost, average is $35 - $75 per month. Also avoid schools that promise a black belt for a fixed price and within a set time.
Avoid schools that rely on older kids to teach younger kids. It's ok to have older students help out, however you child should be taught and supervised by a skilled professional.
Again this has been a quick look at this subject and as time allows and information is found I will update this page. Before making judgment on this or any other topic, pray and study, a variety of resources, about that topic.
References/Suggested reading
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The Holy Bible
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The Christian and the Martial Arts Can be purchased from Gospel Martial Arts Union
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Martial Arts and the Old Testament Can be purchased from Gospel Martial Arts Union
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Interview with Pastor Dave Stout of the Windfall Wesleyan Church.
Once Again
