Mission to initiate, organise and run a Christian association within the field of martial arts.

I believe that God has given me a vision to establish and run an association for Christians who practice martial arts. There are several negative misconceptions about martial arts that are held, mainly by people who have only a second hand experience of it. It is not my intention to promote all martial arts and practice as acceptable in God’s eyes, but to try and give an overview of the practices within this, often over spiritualised field, potentially unsafe areas which may need addressing. It is then up to the individual to take these matters to God and seek His decision on it, bearing in mind that what He may allow one person to do, He may not allow for another (Romans 14:13-18).

1) Evangelism

Through friendships that you have gained in your martial art club, to gently and effectively spread the Gospel of the good news of Jesus Christ, that salvation is attained through Him only (John 3:16, Romans 3:23-24, 10:9).

To refer people interested in Christianity towards a local bible believing, church that is open to the Holy Spirit that offers a form of structured teaching in Christianity. This may be an Alpha course, or the churches own course. BACMA will try to encourage people to find a church that they can regularly attend.

2) Fellowship

To allow the members of the association to have fellowship in order that they may edify and encourage each other. To pray, praise and worship God communally. (1 Thessalonians 5:11.)

3) Education

Internally: To understand and put into practice the fruit of the Spirit at all times, especially during training (Galatians 5:22).

Externally: To be able to give general information to interested parties as to the practice of martial arts. To help interested parties to understand/differentiate the difference between the physical, mental and spiritual sides of martial arts.

BACMA is not:

• A church.  BACMA believes it is important for everyone to be a member of a church, and encourages everyone to be a committed member of a church;

• A church recognised authority on martial arts.  If there is a difference of opinion between your church leader and BACMA, you should follow the authority of your church leader (Hebrews 13:17);

• A martial art style or club.  Whatever type of martial art you practice, you are welcome to get involved with BACMA.

BACMA will not:

Run Alpha courses, or an equivalent. It is important that BACMA is not seen to be running as a totally insular organisation that is independent of churches.  It is for this reason that BACMA will refer people to Alpha courses (or equivalent) run by churches.

BACMA understands that people may get involved in martial arts, and then later, make a commitment to Christ.  Should that individual then feel that there is a contrast between their faith in Jesus and their martial arts, BACMA will advise that the person to stop their martial art training and discuss this with their church leader.

- Martin Ace