What is Vacation Bible School?

Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a fun program usually in the summertime for educating children about the Bible in an engaging, age-appropriate environment. VBS also gives believers a powerful opportunity to use their gifts to shine Christ’s light to young hearts and families in the community.

what does the bible say?

VBS is not specifically mentioned in the Bible, but in Proverbs 4:10–12 we see the value in teaching children wisdom at a young age, as it can impact them for the rest of their life. For some kids, VBS is where they will get to hear biblical truths for the first time, particularly in a way that is understandable for them. VBS is also a ministry opportunity for us in the church to use our unique spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12) and skillsets for God’s glory—whether that is teaching a class, leading in music, coaching kids in athletic games, and so on. If we are not sure where to serve, we can ask God for wisdom (James 1:5) in how to serve best. The goal of VBS should be to shine the light of Christ to a generation in need of hearing His truth and knowing His love (Matthew 5:14-16). No matter how we choose to serve, we can show Christ’s love to the children around us through extending to them the fruits of the Holy Spirit outlined in Galatians 5:22-23.

from the old testament

VBS is an opportunity to teach children the truth of God so that it sticks with them way into the future. Proverbs 4:10–12 says: “Hear, my son, and accept my words, that the years of your life may be many. I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness. When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble.”

from the new testament

In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus tells His disciples: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” VBS is an opportunity to shine Christ’s light to young hearts. We can do this through sharing the Gospel, but also through managing them in a loving way, extending toward them patience, encouraging them in their activities, and so on.
VBS is a ministry opportunity in which we can use our unique spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12) and skills to uplift the children around us and ultimately show them the love of Christ.
For many kids, VBS may be a safe place for them to get away from a difficult life at home. While they attend, they can (perhaps for the first time) witness and be blessed by the body of Christ in a church setting. We can use Galatians 5:22-23 as our guide in how to interact with the children around us.
As we serve in VBS, we can pray that God guides us in wisdom as we seek to help children underst and who He is and how to receive Him into their life (James 1:5).

implications for today

The origins of VBS date back to the mid-1890s when a Sunday school teacher in Illinois felt that there simply wasn’t enough time in Sunday school to teach the children the Bible. D.T. Miles was both a Sunday school teacher and a public educator who started a daily Bible school for the children during the summer of 1894. Today, many churches from different denominations hold some type of summer Bible school or “camp” for children. It usually lasts for a week and is organized around a specific theme (such as space, the Old West, farm life, etc.). Children come for a few hours each day, hear Bible lessons, sing songs, participate in games, make crafts, eat snacks, watch or participate in skits, and the like. The theme and activities all relate to a main biblical truth being communicated, and often there is a gospel presentation at some point in the week. Often children from the church are encouraged to invite their friends, and churches might advertise the VBS to the broader community as well. VBS can be a great evangelistic outreach to children and families who might not otherwise hear the gospel or attend church. The purpose of Vacation Bible School is to create an engaging environment for children of varying age groups to learn the doctrinal truths of the Bible. As mentioned, it can also be a good way for local churches to engage with members of the community who would not otherwise come to church. Many people have been saved as a result of a summer VBS. With that being said, it is always wise to ensure that the core doctrinal beliefs and values of any church or VBS program are biblically sound.

Recap

understand

VBS teaches children biblical truths in a fun, engaging way.
VBS gives believers a chance to serve and show Christ’s love to the greater community.
VBS serves as an outreach, introducing children and families to the gospel.

reflect

How have you experienced VBS and how has it impacted your faith?
How are you seeking to make God known to those in your community?
What opportunities has God given you to share His Word with children, and how are you being faithful to take them?

engage

What is the importance of having programs and us creatively using our gifts to engage children and families who may not otherwise attend church?
How can we ensure that VBS not only entertains but truly teaches biblical truths that stick with children long-term?
How can we balance fun activities with meaningful spiritual lessons to make Christ central in every part of VBS or other programs for children?