by Kyle Pope
Synopsis: While the home and the church both bear responsibility for teaching, we must distinguish between the work of the church, and our activities as individuals, families, or groups.
This question was posed on the online question board of the website of the church for which I preach. To answer it, let us consider what the Bible teaches. First, we need to consider some things regarding this wording.
The question asks about "church camps." The Bible teaches that, while on earth, Jesus declared His intention to build His church (Matt. 16:18). On the Day of Pentecost, when the gospel was first preached and souls obeyed its call, God added those who turned to Christ in faith and obedience to the body of saved souls identified as His church (Acts 2:47 KJV, NKJV; cf. Acts 5:11). This assembly of disciples was purchased with the blood of Christ (Acts 20:28), and is governed by Him as its Head (Eph. 5:23). The New Testament was given as the standard of conduct for activities of this church (1 Tim. 3:15) in both its universal and local sense (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
So let us ask the question this way: Does the New Testament teach (by its direct instructions, by recorded examples of the actions of faithful churches, or by clear inferences) that churches are to build, maintain, staff, and support camps to teach the Bible, provide entertainment for young people, and places of retreat, lodging, association, and edification? No. There is no example in Scripture of churches doing this.
I have known of congregations whose elderships assumed this unscriptural work and promoted it as a part of the work of their local congregation. Despite the good intentions that may have motivated this, we must recognize that there is no more authority in Scripture to support such activities than there would be to start a business to fix cars, show movies, sell groceries, or any other wholesome activity in which individual Christians may participate.
With that said, let us ask it this way: Would it be wrong for Christians to send their kids to a camp operated and led by faithful Christians (that is not operated as a work of a local church)? Absolutely not. Individual Christians have the liberty to participate in any activity that is wholesome, lawful, and godly. Although there is no authority for churches to assume oversight of such activities, if individual Christians band together to organize camps, schools, or other types of associations to provide opportunities for young people to study the Bible, spend time with other Christians, and escape for a time from the world around us, there is nothing wrong with that. We shouldn't call these "Church Camps"—perhaps "Bible Camps" would be more fitting. Now, that doesn't mean that we should send our kids to just any camp that has some religious aim. Some might teach religious error or be extensions of religious organizations operated by denominations, but when faithful Christians offer their time to teach and encourage young people, it can be a great thing. My children went to a camp of this sort. My wife was a counselor for years. My kids were greatly enriched by their time with other children and the godly adults who loved them and loved the Lord.
The question also asked about "VBS." This is the usual abbreviation for Vacation Bible School. Many churches use this name for special studies that are conducted during summer months, often aimed at children who are out of school. To answer this part of the question, we must first acknowledge that this name often means something different to different people who hear it and use it.
In the religious world, this may refer to a formal organization run and operated under the oversight of a church, yet with its own principal, administrators, teachers, and staff. Much like the denominational "Sunday Schools" that form separate institutions that are operated under the umbrella of the denomination, some "Vacation Bible Schools" are distinct entities supported by churches. Just as we noted above regarding "Church Camps," the New Testament never authorizes churches to create institutions and associations as types of para-church organizations.
In some cases, Vacation Bible Schools involve snacks, entertainment, and recreation with little emphasis on teaching the Bible. Paul taught the Corinthians that it is not the work of the church to eat meals for hunger (1 Cor. 11:34). The church is to stand as the "pillar and ground of the truth" (1 Tim. 3:15). Its purpose is not to provide entertainment, recreation, or childcare for working parents. Its purpose is to make known "the manifold wisdom of God" (Eph. 3:10). So, if by VBS, we mean a distinct institution or a children's entertainment time, then, no, the church should not conduct Vacation Bible School.
With that said, some who use this name do not use the term "School" of a distinct organization but use it as a verb meaning to "train or discipline (someone) in a particular skill or activity" (New Oxford Dictionary). Paul commanded Timothy, "And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" (2 Tim. 2:2). Paul told the Corinthians, "Let all things be done for edification" (1 Cor. 14:26). It is clearly the work of the church to teach and edify all, whether children or adults. Can a church set aside a particular time to focus on teaching the young? Absolutely.
Throughout most of the year, although there may be regular classes for all ages taught by local churches, most of the emphasis in gospel meetings and sermons is on adults. While that is fitting, there is something to be said for devoting some special time to focus on teaching the young. It shows them they are valued. It helps them learn in a way they might not otherwise. Where I preach, we call this our Summer Bible Study. This avoids any mis-association with denominational uses of the term "School." We offer classes for all ages but devote some special focus on young people. It is joyous and exciting, but it does not involve snacks and entertainment—it is a time of learning and edification. We firmly believe that it is not only scriptural, but it is a great source of encouragement to young and old alike.
Author-Bio: Kyle preaches for the Olsen Park church of Christ in Amarillo, TX. He has written several books published by Truth Publications including How We Got the Bible. The church website is olsenpark.com. He can be reached at kmpope@att.net.
