We are pleased to bring you the next response to the question “What is the future of Christian Martial Arts?” that we posed to many instructors. The responses are published in the order of when we received them.
[Podcast version available at the end of this post.]
David Dunn, Director of Karate for Christ International
As I have thought about the future for Christian Martial Arts, I’ve came to the conclusion it is going to be connected to the future of the Christian church. We are seeing more tribulation in our world everyday. Even here in the United States, Christians are persecuted as never before. Christians are called gun-toting, bible-thumping rednecks. I guess I should update that by saying they have added racist to the name calling. These are lies of Satan causing division and hatred among believers and non-believers. God wants Christians (and martial arts ministries) to be united in Him, to be strong in the Lord and the power of his might, and Satan wants Christians (and martial arts ministries) divided, conquered and destroyed.
Some Christians say we are not in the last days, but if not we are seeing signs of the storm that is coming. Prepare for good times and the bad times (in all seasons of life). Continually seek God’s direction and power, so you can do the work needed to make your ministry prosper. Be careful – it’s easy for an instructor to become narcissistic. There is no place for a prideful ego in the leadership of a martial arts ministry. Humble yourself and stay focused on the mission.
Time spent on your ministry is like an investment. Over time you will earn interest and your investment will grow. Teach your students life-saving skills and techniques to protect themselves from dangerous real-world situations. Teaching Christian Martial Arts should be well rounded to encourage growth physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Physically – Training will improve students’ strength and athleticism.
Mentally – Teach students how to think strategically. Defensive measures require smart thinking. Basically teach them how to make good choices.
Spiritually – This is our platform for evangelism (Share the Gospel). Teach Christian values and morality. Lead by example and let your students see Jesus in you.
No matter how the future looks for Christian Martial Arts it will continue forward.
Keep on Keeping on!
The Urban Dictionary defines the saying “Keep on keeping on”
- The act of doing what you have been doing but an encouragement to do it more
- Often used when talking to others about what they should be doing “make sure you keep on keeping on”
Reference verses:
Proverbs 11:2 When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom. Pride will destroy
Ephesians 6:10-11 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
2 Timothy 4:1-5 1. I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2. Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. 3. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
Col 3:23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,
Free eBook
We thank each of the Christian Martial Arts instructors who have shared their thoughts during this special series. You can download and share a free eBook with the complete series about The Future of Christian Martial Arts.
Protecting the Vulnerable (Part Five) – Grace Martial Arts
[Join our Grace Martial Arts Facebook Community!]
© Grace Martial Arts 1990 – 2021
Grace Martial Arts 