VBS Themes for Churches (Free Bible-Based Ideas)

Vacation Bible School (VBS) is one of the most important outreach events for churches. Choosing the right VBS theme helps children understand God’s Word, keeps lessons organized, and makes it easier for volunteers to teach with confidence.

This page shares proven VBS themes for churches, each rooted in Scripture and adaptable for different age groups. Free lesson ideas, activities, and printables will be added over time.

Popular VBS Themes for Churches

Below are Bible-based VBS theme ideas that work well for small churches, large churches, and mixed-age groups.

Adventure with Jesus

This theme focuses on following Jesus every day. Children learn that trusting Jesus is the greatest adventure of all.

Bible Focus: Matthew 4:19
Best For: Preschool to elementary
Teaching Emphasis: Following Jesus, faith, obedience

The Armor of God

Children learn how God protects them by teaching each piece of the armor of God in a simple, memorable way.

Bible Focus: Ephesians 6:10–18
Best For: Ages 5–10
Teaching Emphasis: Standing strong in faith, prayer, obedience

Bible Heroes

This theme introduces children to heroes of the Bible such as Noah, Moses, David, Esther, and Daniel.

Bible Focus: Hebrews 11
Best For: All ages
Teaching Emphasis: Faith, courage, trusting God

God’s Love

Children learn that God loves them unconditionally and sent Jesus to save them.

Bible Focus: John 3:16
Best For: Preschool and early elementary
Teaching Emphasis: God’s love, kindness, forgiveness

God’s Creation

This theme teaches children that God created the world and everything in it, and that creation shows God’s power and care.

Bible Focus: Genesis 1:1
Best For: Younger age groups
Teaching Emphasis: God as Creator, gratitude, stewardship

Following Jesus

Children learn practical ways to follow Jesus in their daily lives—at home, at school, and with friends.

Bible Focus: Luke 9:23
Best For: Elementary ages
Teaching Emphasis: Obedience, prayer, loving others

Faith and Trust in God

This theme helps children understand what faith means and how to trust God even when things are difficult.

Bible Focus: Proverbs 3:5–6
Best For: Ages 6–10
Teaching Emphasis: Trusting God, prayer, dependence on Him

How to Choose the Right VBS Theme

When choosing a VBS theme, consider these factors:

Age range of children attending
Number of volunteers available
Teaching experience of helpers
Budget and resources
Length of VBS program

Simple themes with clear Bible truths are usually more effective than complex concepts.

VBS Themes by Age Group

Preschool (Ages 3–5):

God’s Love
God’s Creation
Following Jesus

Elementary (Ages 6–10):

Bible Heroes
Armor of God
Faith and Trust in God

Mixed Ages:

Adventure with Jesus
Following Jesus

Free VBS Resources (Coming Soon)

We are building free, Bible-based VBS resources to support these themes, including:

VBS lesson outlines
Printable worksheets and activities
Simple craft ideas
Age-based teaching guides

These resources will be added gradually and will remain free to use for churches and families.

Looking for Weekly Lessons?

If you’re planning lessons outside of VBS, explore our complete collection of Sunday School Lessons for Kids, organized by age with free printable worksheets.