VBS 2023 Focuses on Training Kids to Be Keepers of God's Kingdom

VBS 2023 Focuses on Training Kids to Be Keepers of God's Kingdom

This summer, churches across the country will be hosting Vacation Bible School programs with the theme "Keepers of the Kingdom." VBS 2023 aims to teach children how they can put on the full armor of God and train to defend His kingdom. With fun activities, worship songs, Bible stories, and powerful lessons, VBS 2023 willequip kids to carry on the message and mission of Jesus.

What is VBS?

VBS stands for Vacation Bible School, a program hosted by churches each summer to teach kids about God. VBS is often one of the largest outreach events a church holds all year. Thousands of kids gather for a week of faith-filled fun and learning. Each day features interactive lessons, games, crafts, snacks, and music focused around a central Biblical theme.

VBS provides a bridge between church and community. It's an opportunity to welcome new families into the church. And it's a highlights for kids who already attend the church. They invite friends and eagerly anticipate VBS all year long.

The Theme for 2023

The theme for VBS 2023 is "Keepers of the Kingdom." This theme focuses on Ephesians 6 where Paul urges believers to "put on the full armor of God." The armor represents the spiritual tools and protection God gives us to defend His kingdom. VBS 2023 will teach kids how they can suit up and become strong keepers of God's kingdom.

The logo features a knight's helmet with a cross, symbolizing the armor of God. The verse is Ephesians 6:10 which reads: "Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power." Kids will learn that God can empower them for spiritual battle if they faithfully put on His armor each day.

Putting on the Armor of God

A key Bible passage for this VBS theme is Ephesians 6:10-18. This describes the different pieces of spiritual armor God provides:

• Belt of truth
• Breastplate of righteousness
• Shoes of peace
• Shield of faith
• Helmet of salvation
• Sword of the Spirit (God's Word)

Kids will learn what each piece of armor represents and how to "put it on" through prayer, scripture, righteous living, and sharing the gospel. Just as knights needed armor to defend their kingdom, God arms believers with His truth and power to defend Christ's kingdom.

Interactive VBS Lessons

VBS aims to teach deep spiritual truths in age-appropriate, engaging ways. Each day will focus on one piece of God's armor with interactive activities like:

• Making breastplates out of cardboard and decorating shields
• Sword drills to practice scripture verses
• Helmet relays while balancing "helmets" on their heads
• Skits about standing firm in faith
• Discussing real life situations and how to react in a Christ-like way

Rather than just hearing a Bible story, kids will participate in creative activities to imprint spiritual concepts on their hearts. Upbeat worship rallies, fun games, and themed snacks also reinforce the lessons.

VBS Schedule Sample

While every church styles their VBS schedule differently, here is an example outline:

9:00 - Opening Rally

- Upbeat worship songs with motions

- Introduce daily theme and verse

- Get kids pumped up for day's activities

9:30 - Classroom Rotations

- Small group Bible lessons

- Memory verse activities

- Themed crafts

- Prayer stations

10:30 - Recreation Time

- High-energy games relating to daily theme

- Outdoor activities and water games if weather permits

11:00 - Snack Time

- Themed snacks reinforcing Bible point

11:20 - Closing Rally

- Review daily theme and verse

- Preview tomorrow's activities

- Upbeat closing worship

Fun Friday Finale

To conclude the week, most churches host a family celebration evening on Friday. This VBS open house lets parents see their kids showcase what they learned. Activities may include:

• A kid-friendly worship concert
• Armor of God crafts or souvenirs
• Photo booth in costume
• Kingdom-themed games for families
• Kingdom food like castle cakes, swords in a stone ring toss

The Friday finale lets the whole family join in celebrating their role as defenders of Christ's kingdom.

Why VBS Matters

In our increasingly secular culture, VBS stands out as an island of faith-focused fun. For many kids, VBS may be the only real exposure to God's Word they receive all year. The lessons aim to:

• Introduce kids to Jesus in a compelling, understandable way
• Lay a foundation of Bible knowledge they can build on
• Teach kids how to pray, worship, and grow in faith
• Guide them to trust Christ as Lord and Savior
• Inspire kids to share the gospel with friends

VBS also ministers to families. Parents may attend closing rallies and see firsthand the positive impact. Unchurched families get comfortable venturing inside a church. Relationships form that open the door to future ministry.

Get Ready for VBS 2023!

VBS takes months of preparation and volunteers to pull off. But the effort pays off with eternal dividends. If you want your kids or church to be part of VBS 2023, here are some tips:

• Check your church website for VBS registration dates
• Mark the VBS week on your summer calendars
• Start inviting friends and neighbors to attend
• Volunteer to help with planning, decorating, meals, etc.
• Donate supplies needed for crafts and games
• Pray for God to use VBS to draw many kids to Himself

VBS 2023 promises to be an exciting week of growing in faith. The themed armor of God lessons will empower kids to boldly defend and share the gospel. Let's suit up for VBS and train kids to be strong keepers of Christ's kingdom!

FAQs

What is the theme for VBS 2023?

The theme for VBS 2023 is "Keepers of the Kingdom." It focuses on Ephesians 6 and the armor of God.

What are the key activities at VBS?

Key activities include interactive Bible lessons, themed crafts, recreation, worship rallies, memory verses, and more.

What is the daily schedule?

A sample schedule includes opening rally, small group rotations, recreation, snack time and closing rally.

Who can attend VBS?

VBS is for kids ages 4-12 in most churches. Older youth can volunteer. Unchurched families are welcome!

How can I sign up my child?

Check your local church website for VBS registration details. Sign ups often start in the spring.