Can A Christian work at a Martial Arts Studio? Moral Conflict!?

Question

I am a 'new' Christian and am also looking for a new job. I have been offered an interview at a Martial Arts Studio as a secretary. I have done some research on my own and have found mixed results. I really need the money, but I don't want to go against Biblical teachings- as there are other jobs out there.
Any thoughtful input would be welcome!

Answer 1

What you need to determine is if this is going to lead you astray. Are you strong enough in your faith to understand what is going on there and make a difference? There may be someone there who is seeking and needs to hear from you. I would go for it. You don't have to buy into their philosophies to work there and learn what it's about. On the other hand, if they are asking you to chant, do mantras and yoga - I'm not so sure. Most martial arts studios are not teaching religion persay but a philosophy. There are alot of believers who practice martial arts without buying into the worldview. I don't think there is a biblical teaching against being in the world - there is only one against being of the world. Part of the reason why the fields are ripe and the harvesters are few is that we're afraid to go out into the harvest. Make sure you have a good small group who can pray for you as you make this decision. It's very good that you're thinking it over and not just making flippant decisions with your life. That would be worse than anything else. Remember Shadrach Meshach and Abendigo? They had to go through the rigorous training and education expected of them - but when asked to bow down to other gods - they would not. You just have to know where to draw the line and not be afraid to draw it if you have to. But as a secretary - I don't see how this would become an issue. If you can do the tasks they are asking you to do like type, do reception be nice to people and make phone calls - there's nothing unChristian or unbiblical about doing that. I worked in the big corporate world for a long time - and talk about an ungodly environment! There was temptation in many areas and people trying to force me to compromise and I would not. It's not easy - but I think a martial arts studio is small fry compared to the secular corporate dog eat dog world where the secretary can be considered the bottom of the food chain expected to behave like an obedient puppy dog regardless of the politics, warped morals and corrupt practices! If a Christian can successfully navigate the secular corporate world - I know you can do this!

Answer 2

I do not see a moral conflict in working at a martial arts studio and being a Christian. Many Christians learn some form of martial arts as martial arts are good at teaching self discipline and they also are taught as self defense not as something for someone to use to go out and kill people and things like that. I would go ahead and go to the interview and pray about it and if God wants you to have this job then you will get the job if He doesn't then you won't.

Answer 3

Why do you think that it is a moral conflict? Martial Arts is technically an art form. It is just normally portrayed as violent acts. Do you think Tai Chi is violent? Tai Chi is considered as a Martial Art. My suggestion to you is to go with what you feel. If you think that it is morally wrong, then do not apply for the job. If you are unsure, then think it over. As long as you are not doing anything immoral you should be ok. Good luck and hope you find the answer to your moral question.

Answer 4

If the Martial arts are purely physical exercise etc that may not be a problem.

However if any of the worldview/philosophy behind the martial arts is also being taught (e.g., some of the martial arts involve elements of the occult) then as a Christian it would be wise to have nothing to do with that kind of job.

So, it depends on what is being taught and propagated at the studio.

Cordially,
John

Answer 5

There are organizations such as Karate for Christ that teach martial arts as a discipline and exercise outlet and not a blood-thirsty sport. They teach devotions and application principles all based on God's word. It is a wonderful concept actually! I know of a man who runs a Tae Kwon Do studio in much of the same fashion as Karate for Christ. There are no biblical teachings against working there, but you should be aware of the environment. Is there an emphasis on violence or on discipline? Is there an emphasis on cursing and vulgar behavior or on respect for everyone? You don't want to be in an area that could lead to temptations.

Answer 6

Other than being told it's against The Bible, where did you get the idea that it's a moral conflict? Martial Arts were NOT designed as means of violence or self-defense, but as a means to learn self discipline and self control. What could be more Godly?

Answer 7

Moral conflict? I know a lot of Christians that practice martial arts. What does that have to do with anything? Go for it! Remember your 10% to the church come first payday..

Answer 8

What's the moral conflict? I know many people that are christian and train and work in the martial art's studio's and gym's.. So I am not sure which/what conflict(s) your having...

Answer 9

This is a strange question. Martial Arts is taught for discipline, honor and self defense. There is no real violence associated with martial arts. I don't see how something as pure as that would conflict with your christian beliefs.

Answer 10

Martial Arts is just self defense. Tons of Christians practice it, so in my opinion (as a fellow Christian) I think it's ok. But if it's going to bother you then it's probably not worth it.