Is mixed martial arts just another sport—or something more?
In The Ethics of the Octagon, pastor Sean DeMars offers a careful and deeply biblical evaluation of one of the fastest-growing forms of entertainment in the world. Once an avid fan, as well as a trained martial artist himself, DeMars understands the appeal of MMA—the discipline, the skill, the intensity. But over time, a question began to press on his conscience: Can Christians celebrate what MMA requires?
This book answers that question by examining Scripture’s teaching on:
- The dignity of human beings made in the image of God
- The purpose and limits of violence in a fallen world
- The moral shape of Christian entertainment
- The responsibility of spectators, not just participants
- The formation of the heart through what we watch
Rather than dismissing MMA with shallow arguments, DeMars carefully engages common objections and draws important distinctions between combat sports, training, and self-defense.
The Ethics of the Octagon is not a call to legalism, but to ethical clarity. It invites Christians to think deeply, examine their hearts honestly, and bring even their entertainment under the lordship of Christ.
“Sean DeMars brings a mature understanding of the teachings of the Bible to the topic of mixed martial arts (MMA). He carefully distinguishes MMA from other contact sports like football and wrestling. His conclusions seem to me to be faithful to the overall teachings of the Bible, and I expect that everyone who reads this booklet will be challenged by his arguments.” – Wayne Grudem, Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus of Theology and Biblical Studies at Phoenix Seminary
“Raising ethical questions about people’s recreation is a good way to be labeled a spoilsport. Yet Christians should be willing to bring every area of their lives under the lordship of Christ. DeMars asks hard questions about a sport he enjoys, pointing readers toward a deeper, more biblical understanding of the place of violent spectacles in the Christian life. This is a nuanced examination of a culturally challenging topic.” – Andrew Spencer, Associate Editor for The Gospel Coalition
“Following Christ means asking questions about the activities and pursuits we might enjoy in this present age. Sean DeMars does this well with courageous questions about the popular sport of MMA. He applies neither legalism nor license in helping Christians think through their consumption and participation in this sport. Wherever you land on MMA, you’ll want to take his pastoral, biblical, and ethical questions seriously. This book is one you will want in your library.” – Daniel Darling, Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Seminary
