Introduction: Tomorrow begins Vacation Bible School. And I am excited that we get to invest in the souls of children for four days. Some of these children have never heard the gospel or been in a church, others are familiar with church but perhaps are lost. This week has the potential of children getting saved and perhaps their parents getting saved. Children look forward to VBS because it’s a fun week. That being said, what is our duty regarding VBS children?
Our Duty regarding VBS Children is to:
1. Receive Them Like Jesus– Mark 10:13-16. Jesus received these children well and with open arms. Give them a nice warm welcome. These children will come from all kinds of homes with all kinds of backgrounds, behaviors, and appearances. Greet them and their parents with smiles and make them feel welcomed.
2. Care For Them– Matthew 18:1-6, 10 Jesus is serious when it comes to taking care of little children. Offend- cause to sin, draw to evil, make stumble. Children should feel protected among adults and especially among “church people”. The two adult rule is always a must. No child will be left alone. Give them drinks, food, candy, toys, prizes. Care, respect, and love these children.
3. Teach Them Faithfully– Proverbs 22:6 We want to train children to go in the way of the Lord. Train: teach, instruct, guide, be an example. In the way: Right path, way of wisdom and righteousness, in the fear of the Lord. Get involved in bible lessons, songs, memory verses, gospel presentation. Have them repeat Bible Stories and verses for prizes.
4. Love Them Fervently– John 13:34 Love on them. Care for them. These children will come from all walks of life. And from all kinds of home environments. From good homes and greatly troubled homes. Listen to them, be interested in them. When they know you care, they will know Jesus Cares. Phil 2:5 “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus”.
5. Be a Godly Example to Them– I Timothy 4:12 You represent Jesus Christ and children are very impressionable and they will be remembered for ever (good or bad). Your attitude and patience will be a big deal to them.
6. Preach the Gospel Clearly– Matthew 28:19-20. Use child illustrations. Age appropriate presentation of the gospel. Make it simple to understand and receive. ABC’s of salvation.
7. Trust God For the Results– I Corinthians 3:6. We will do our part well and with Joy and God will take care of the results. We can discouraged if not many children show up. We can get prideful if many children show up. Leave the result to the Lord.
Conclusion: This VBS will take a lot of time, work, prayer, and resources, however it will be well worth it. Your investment in children will be a great blessing from the Lord. Whether you teach, coordinate games, feed them, listen to their verses, decorate, or donate something, your investment is great in heaven. Give it your best this week, you’re doing this for the Lord!
Anchor Baptist Church 