by Lois Ann Glessner, Bible Adventure Training and Curriculum Coordinator
Matt*, the third grade Bible Adventure student sat at the table with two Bibles. One Bible had a bright colored cover with “GOD’S WORD” emblazoned across the front. The other one was multi-colored with the words “HOLY BIBLE.” Matt looked confused when I asked him to look up Psalm 23:3. “Which one do I use? Which one is the right Bible?” Matt was not being funny. He is very smart and intent on learning. I explained that they are both Bibles and they are the same on the inside. Matt looked up Psalm 23:3 in each Bible and realized they were identical. Just to be sure, Matt also looked up other verses in each Bible. He enjoyed the challenge.
Two other students at the same table were looking up Psalm 23:3. They looked in the table of contents to find Psalms. They were concerned. The covers on their Bibles were the same, but the Psalms started on different pages in each book. “Why?” On closer examination, I found that they were looking at a translation and also an update of that translation. This provided me an opportunity to show them a language update. Students want to learn. Who will teach them?
We realize that the Bible comes with different covers and in different versions, but our students do not. Teaching opportunities are all around us. Biblical illiteracy is huge. How are we going to reach the next generation? We can begin by teaching one student at a time.
In Bible Adventure programs and at Joy El’s Christian camps and retreats, students need knowledgeable adults to teach them about God’s Word and to guide them in understanding how to use and read their Bibles. If you are looking for a fulfilling volunteer opportunity, we invite you to contact us at 717-369-4539 for information on volunteering in a Joy El program.
*Name has been changed.
For information on volunteering, use the links below.
Information on volunteering with Joy El
Information on volunteering with Bible Adventure
