Christians and the Martial Arts

[PastorSherm]

First I wanted to say hello. I am a pastor in a Pentecostal denom. I also have been involved in the martial arts for several years now. I have encountered a few Christians who do not feel a Christian should practice the martial arts. They seem to think that if you are involved in them that you must be practicing some eastern religion or have leanings towards them such as Buddhism or Shintoism. I think that is utter nonsense. I am a Christian first before ANYTHING. And participating in Judo will never change that. If God were to lay it on my heart that I should not do Judo or anyother martial art, I would never ever again set foot in a dojo, he however has not done so yet.
Another thing I get is how can a Christian participate in such a violence based activity? First there is never any malice or hate directed towards the person I am competing against. and there never would be. My question to them would be how can a christian be a football player? That is a violent sport...or boxing..yet we have reggie White and Evander Holyfield. Also of note Chuck Norris the great martial artist is also a born again Christian. Just thought I'd get your responses and thoughts on this subject.....Sherm

[inHisgrip]

My son just completed a year of training in martial arts. It was a wonderful experience that taught him discipline, self respect and kindness. I support those who chose to be involvoed in martial arts, it is not about fighting, but respect.
In Him

[katylees]

I'm at uni now ...and i want to start karate altho not sure yet becuase its on a wednesday and friday and wednesday i have wind band and friday is CU ..so hmmm still thinking.. i think its ok to do karate or something but im not entirley sure:thumbsup:

[twistedsketch]

I don't see a problem with it. If anything, it would make people more secure and more likely to turn the other cheek.

[but'n'ben]

I'm in my 15th year of karate and it's taught me nothing but discipline, respect, and negotiation. I have never once been in a fight and I think it's because of my training.

Those who say Christians shouldn't be involved in martial arts are probably those who think it's an aggressive sport. They don't understand it's about not fighting but being prepared if someone attacks us. They don't seem to know most martial artists would never fight unless it was absolutely necessary.

Like Pastorsherm said, in competetion it's not a case of staring out your opponent and thinking of nothing but hate. I'm not sure about any other rule system but karate is very strict. Unnecessary aggression is dealt with very seriously and can result in complete disqualification.

There are a very prominent Karate family in England, I forget their name, who are just as well known for being Christian and very open about Christianity in their dojo. I think this is a good thing. I also think God would be happy for us to learn something which teaches us to be gentle and respect each other.

EDIT: I also have a martial arts book in which an Catholic priest is one of the karate demonstrators. He's about a 5th dan black belt. He obviously sees nothing wrong with it and I've total respect for him.

[BarbB]

My great nephew began karate when he was 5 as a group activity in a new area before school started. Not a good idea. He went from a loving well-behaved little boy into a monster. He's just now calming down.

Perhaps older kids and up can appreciate the discipline, etc. but youngsters don't seem to understand that lesson.

[Rebirth In Flames]

It's hard to train in a sport that teaches you to hit back, and at the same time to follow a Christ who tells you to "turn the other cheek." A pastor of all people should realise this. Are you a servant of the world or of God? You can't be both.

[PaladinValer]

While it is true that the martial arts were originally based on religious theology (Taoism especially left its mark, although Buddhism and Confucianism have their touches in Chinese forms, Hinduism in Indian forms, and Shinto in Japanese forms), it is entirely possible to simply learn a martial art without embracing anything religious.

The martial arts are an excellent way to build discipline, self-motivation, balance, agility, and is also a good exercise. Being able to defend yourself and others is a nice skill to have if you feel you must exercise it, and does provide oneself with a level of comfort.

I personally took a Japanese swordsmanship class and learned how to use the katana and wakisashi (traditional samurai swords). Having a fairly decent background in religious studies, I knew what elements came from Shinto, Buddhism (Zen, also known as Ch'an in China), and Taoism, yet that did not concern me at all, especially since much wasn't specifically stated as "wrong" in Scripture or Tradition and therefore, adaptable. There is also much that could find support in Scripture and Tradition as well, which made it that much easier.

My suggestion is to first educate yourself, then educate those who say the martial arts cannot be practiced by Christians. Explain that not everything in Eastern theology is contradictory to Christianity; much is, in fact, either favorable with it or at least neutral. Also explain that, in most instruction, theology isn't even taught (except perhaps as a lesson to explain where the origins of the particual form came from, but even then, such is only a historical/philosophical lesson, not a theological one), and instead it is simply learning the art for one's own benefit for self-improvement (and God knows humanity needs that!).

And if they still badger you about it, simply ignore the ignorant and let them think otherwise. You know you do nothing wrong and that should comfort you. :)

[Iron Lion]

i think most martial arts are fine, In our world today most of the arts are more sport based than anything an some are even olympic sports. martial arts are a great way to stay fit as well. I think though u need to investigate the art you want to do because some are taught around buddist beliefs like some styles of kung fu. but Karate, tai kwon do and other of the more popular ones today are very much sports.

[Beowulf]

I was discipled rigorously for about 6 months by a couple fellows adept in the arts. They've never flaunted their skills but I've caught glimpses of them now and then working out when they thought I wasn't around. :) No, they weren't trying to hide anything, just didn't have that need to show off.

[Christler]

This is one of my favorite portions of scripture, and those who are familiar with my post will say "you ain't kidding ^_^ " but "THE SPIRIT WILL LEAD YOU INTO ALL TRUTH." Christianforums is good. I have to say that sometimes I feel as if I'm addicted to this place, but listen to me carefully, for I do feel very compelled to say this to you.
:priest:" Be careful of the advice of men. Rely on God for your
direction. Let not your good deeds be evil spoken of.

Abstian from the very apperence of evil. Take up your

Cross, and follow Me."

[PastorSherm]

It's hard to train in a sport that teaches you to hit back, and at the same time to follow a Christ who tells you to "turn the other cheek." A pastor of all people should realise this. Are you a servant of the world or of God? You can't be both.I do Judo, we don't hit or kick :) it is also an Olympic sport

[PastorSherm]

I would also like to add, this is a very good witnessing tool, I've found. Especially with the kids. My instructor is also a Christian.

[daveleau]

First I wanted to say hello. I am a pastor in a Pentecostal denom. I also have been involved in the martial arts for several years now. I have encountered a few Christians who do not feel a Christian should practice the martial arts. They seem to think that if you are involved in them that you must be practicing some eastern religion or have leanings towards them such as Buddhism or Shintoism. I think that is utter nonsense. I am a Christian first before ANYTHING. And participating in Judo will never change that. If God were to lay it on my heart that I should not do Judo or anyother martial art, I would never ever again set foot in a dojo, he however has not done so yet.
Another thing I get is how can a Christian participate in such a violence based activity? First there is never any malice or hate directed towards the person I am competing against. and there never would be. My question to them would be how can a christian be a football player? That is a violent sport...or boxing..yet we have reggie White and Evander Holyfield. Also of note Chuck Norris the great martial artist is also a born again Christian. Just thought I'd get your responses and thoughts on this subject.....Sherm

Knowledge of fighting is not evil, the way this knowledge is used is the evil part. If you use Judo for anything other than fitness or for self-defense or maybe in competition, then it could very well be seen as evil depending on the situation. IMO, Judo is not evil.

One thing that is often associated with Japanese martial arts are the influences of their religion. Even meditation is looked down upon, because of its ties to Buddhism. I tend to agree with this aspect and that the religious aspects of Judo and other martial arts should be discarded. But, I do not think participation in this activity is wrong because of the ties others make to these arts.

With you being a pastor, I am probably not telling you anything you don't already know. :) One thing I would say is that if it starts to cause issues with people in the congregation, (if they start to doubt your conviction because of this activity), then you need to decide if this act is worth that loss of influence over the congregation.

God bless you,
Dave

[but'n'ben]

If a kid goes off the rails that's not the fault of the martial art. We are not taught to hit back through aggression but to defuse a situation. If it needs force to do so then fine. It's not like I'd beat up someone beyond recognition for looking at me the wrong way.

Also, the way a kid has been taught will influence they way they turn out. Some instructrs teach martial arts as sport as opposed to traditional.

[PastorSherm]

actually the problem is not with the congregation. it mainly has been with people during conversation. I am meek in my Judo..it actually mean the gentle way. One def. of meek in the Bible is great power under control. jesus was meek yet he still got angry, he got angry when he cleared the temple of the money changers. yet Jesus was meek{power under great control} Anger is not a sin, it's what you do with that anger that could become a sin. Jesus had authority to become angry{rightoes idignation}...we do not have the authority to take the law into our own hands. Jesus was meek when they arrested him in the night. he brought a few people out of death, he could of easily put a few people into it with only a thought.

We should and have a duty to become angry when we see an injustice in the world. We have an obligation "to lets say if we see somebody being beaten and robbed" to intervene if we can. For me using a gun and killing those doing the beaten is not an option. But if my Judo skills can save somebody's life and not seriously hurt the other people. I am obligated to use them.

[but'n'ben]

Agree with what Pastorsherm just said. Keep on with the judo. I think there's nothing wrong with it. :thumbsup:

[daveleau]

actually the problem is not with the congregation. it mainly has been with people during conversation. I am meek in my Judo..it actually mean the gentle way. One def. of meek in the Bible is great power under control. jesus was meek yet he still got angry, he got angry when he cleared the temple of the money changers. yet Jesus was meek{power under great control} Anger is not a sin, it's what you do with that anger that could become a sin. Jesus had authority to become angry{rightoes idignation}...we do not have the authority to take the law into our own hands. Jesus was meek when they arrested him in the night. he brought a few people out of death, he could of easily put a few people into it with only a thought.

We should and have a duty to become angry when we see an injustice in the world. We have an obligation "to lets say if we see somebody being beaten and robbed" to intervene if we can. For me using a gun and killing those doing the beaten is not an option. But if my Judo skills can save somebody's life and not seriously hurt the other people. I am obligated to use them.


Wow. Superb post! I totally agree. My self defense for my wife is a firearm that she carries, but only in life or death instances would either of us consider using it on a person. I don't have the body composition (I am one of the least limber people I've ever seen:)) or the time/ patience to do Judo.

[Turpius]

I have no problem with a Christian learning Martial Arts as long as they leave off the phiosophical/theological background of it alone.

[mcauliffeandy]

If you put Jesus first, I don't see any problem but look at your signature (It is no longer I who live). I think you being a pastor and all, should give time to prayer and the upbuilding of the church rather than something which will make you lean on your own strenght and might.
Let us lay aside every weight and the sin which does so easily beset and run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith...

I pray you let aside this weight and run with patience the race you have as a pastor and give everything to Jesus, for martial arts won't help you in heaven.

With Love,

Andy

[PastorSherm]

If you put Jesus first, I don't see any problem but look at your signature (It is no longer I who live). I think you being a pastor and all, should give time to prayer and the upbuilding of the church rather than something which will make you lean on your own strenght and might.
Let us lay aside every weight and the sin which does so easily beset and run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith...

I pray you let aside this weight and run with patience the race you have as a pastor and give everything to Jesus, for martial arts won't help you in heaven.

With Love,

Andy
I agree 100%, Judo is a hobby, it takes 4 hours a week out of my time. I am a pastor 24 hours a day seven days a week...I'm even a pastor on the Judo mat. I speak often with the people at my school about Christ. Some of them have even come to hear me preach. Everything I do reflects Christ..even Judo the way I carry myself in victory or defeat reflects Christ.

[twistedsketch]

I agree 100%, Judo is a hobby, it takes 4 hours a week out of my time. I am a pastor 24 hours a day seven days a week...I'm even a pastor on the Judo mat. I speak often with the people at my school about Christ. Some of them have even come to hear me preach. Everything I do reflects Christ..even Judo the way I carry myself in victory or defeat reflects Christ.
Cool. Not a bad way to spend time with the kids either, is it? My dad used to take me to the local Judo club for a little while, a long time ago.

[mcauliffeandy]

If it leads people to Christ it is the best thing you could be doing.

[PastorSherm]

LOL I just went back and read some of my posts....I should create a thread called "Christians and really poor spelling" LOL

[kingzjewel]

First I wanted to say hello. I am a pastor in a Pentecostal denom. I also have been involved in the martial arts for several years now. I have encountered a few Christians who do not feel a Christian should practice the martial arts. They seem to think that if you are involved in them that you must be practicing some eastern religion or have leanings towards them such as Buddhism or Shintoism. I think that is utter nonsense. I am a Christian first before ANYTHING. And participating in Judo will never change that. If God were to lay it on my heart that I should not do Judo or anyother martial art, I would never ever again set foot in a dojo, he however has not done so yet.
Another thing I get is how can a Christian participate in such a violence based activity? First there is never any malice or hate directed towards the person I am competing against. and there never would be. My question to them would be how can a christian be a football player? That is a violent sport...or boxing..yet we have reggie White and Evander Holyfield. Also of note Chuck Norris the great martial artist is also a born again Christian. Just thought I'd get your responses and thoughts on this subject.....Sherm
they have the same problem with yoga... i love yoga. it got me through a tough time in my pregnancy and helps me to keep calm in awkward and high stress situations. the argument is that the meditation is of the devil when in fact meditation was a mandate from God and something we should do often. just b/c some people do it the way they do doesnt mean its the same way i do ykwim? i think karate and martial arts are great. my husband looooves them and thinks they are good for discipline as well as fitness. we are planning on putting our son in as soon as he turns 3.

[CurlyCrown]

There's nothing wrong with meditation. There's nothing that says that when you meditate you must be thinking about an Asian or Hindu god. Who says you can't meditate before karate practice or yoga and just ask God to calm your body and mind and focus on Him during exercise? I think many Christians are too quick to label things as evil.

[godsworn]

to me, martial arts and meditation are forces of the mind, as many here have said, it is a building of an inner foundation, it can be an increadable force to connect one to God. Practices as these really transend culture, they should not be shunned from origions, nor should those origions be looked down upon, that is an unfair judgement, I would love it if there was a Pastor in my area that taught martial arts, should there ever be, sign me up!

[Leimeng]

~ Having practiced martial arts in different forms for the past 22 years I have no problem at all with it. I do not find it contradictory to my faith in Christ Jesus. I also encourage everyone to develop proficiency in firearms.
~ Continue to discuss amongst yourselves...

Peace,

Leimeng

Flatulor Ergo Sum ~~
A conclusion is simply the place where you got tired of thinking.