Christian Karate - Kicks for Christ
The martial arts are one of the fastest growing sports in America. Enrollments in Karate, Tae Kwon Do and Soo Tang Do classes are on the rise. In addition to being thought of for the physical fitness aspects, martial arts also seek to emphasize the students character and discipline. Offered in a secular setting, it teaches students to be good people.
With ever increasing popularity, many church communities are now offering Christian Karate. While character and discipline are important, more today a third aspect is integrated into martial arts, building the spiritual life of students. Churches are offering martial arts instruction that relates to Gods instructions in the Bible. These classes are often used as an outreach ministry to introduce the Gospel to those who normally wouldnt attend a church service.
Classes emphasize courtesy, integrity, self-control, perseverance and an unconquerable spirit. These characteristics are key to the development in Christian life. Each week the students are given weekly topic and a memory verse. An example of what the students may receive would be a topic on Boldness vs. Fearfulness. They are taught to be confident that what they have to say or do is true and right and just in the sight of God. Acts 4:29 in the Bible would be relevant to this topic - And now they're at it again! Take care of their threats and give your servants fearless confidence in preaching your Message (MSG).
These are key characteristics to develop in the Christian life. Self discipline, picking yourself up after falling short, ministering to others, and striving to live a life that bears fruit are traits can be practiced through the study of martial arts.
Martial arts do not teach violence, but rather restraint, not anger but rather self control and stillness. Students will develop their bodies through physical effort, challenge, and learn techniques of punching and striking. Power is given to us by God in the freedom of choice in our actions. Martial arts help us to learn that our privilege of power must be controlled and not used recklessly.
Students learn that one must ultimately fail many times before true success is achieved, and that greatness is achieved only through perseverance. The goal of the class is to develop students who take responsibility for their actions, understand the limits of rules and who show an increased level of self esteem. Many classes are interspersed with teachings from the Bible to link the character tenets of Martial Arts with Christian values.
Visit your local church or search online to find a group forming near you.