2003 VBS concludes with a call to battle ! 

19-July-2003

 This year’s VBS concluded Friday (July 18) ending a very successful week of spiritual lessons about the “Great Battles of the Bible”.  Matt Hennecke of Elburn, Illinois taught the adult class, providing wonderful insight and knowledge of the subject matter.  All who attended that class agreed that Matt was exceptional in bringing to life the battles described in the Bible and those who played important roles in those conflicts, especially those who faithfully followed God.

Among the points that he made throughout the week was one noted quote in particular.  In explaining how man tends to look for qualified individuals before placing them in positions of responsibility (calling upon those who are qualified), God often does just the opposite, giving duty and responsibility to those whom He has called as servants in the kingdom.  “Man calls the qualified; God qualifies the called.”

All teachers did a marvelous job in preparing both lessons and classrooms, and the children enthusiastically received the lessons and exhibited what they had learned.  New songs were sung and enactment of many of the Bible stories made for an exciting and profitable week both for students and teachers alike.

Attendance was the best for any VBS in recent memory (148, 154, 172, 169 and 155).  Both elders and members were encouraged by the enthusiasm and participation of all the young people who came from Traders Point families as well as from the local community.  Traders Point evangelist Tim Smelser publicly thanked both the elders for planning this spiritual feast and Jeff Piece who coordinated the teachers and activities that help make this VBS the wonderful success that it was.

Brother Matt ended the week with a lesson on the Soldiers of Christ.  He noted that the Centurion is the only Bible character (not apostles, fishermen, farmers, kings, etc) that is always spoken of in a favorable light.  He discussed many of the characteristics of the Centurion that helped make him prepared to serve in his position in such a notable way.  He concluded by issuing a call to battle to all those in attendance    .  "Soldiers of Christ, arise, and put your armor on”.  Because of his efforts and of all the teachers this week, we are all better equipped to fight the good fight of faith.

(Note: each adult class was videotaped and copies are available upon request.)