SPRINGFIELD – Don Wilson has seen the difference the Word of God makes in childrens’ lives.
The volunteer from Ridgecrest Baptist Church in Springfield is the go-to person for Bible Drill in Missouri.
“The thing I’ve always loved about Bible Drill is it teaches kids to use the Bible,” he said. “They open it, they learn key passages, they learn where things are. If they stay in it, in three years they’ll learn 30 key passages that they can find at any time. They learn the books of the Bible, but I encourage them to learn them both forwards and backwards so they can be able find something even quicker.”
But Bible Drill isn’t just about memorization and speed at flipping pages.
“They also learn what each book and passage is about as we go along,” Wilson said. “If they really study it, those kids will remember their 25 verses long after Bible Drill is over. I’ve been doing Bible Drill for 30 years, and I’ve got kids from 30 years ago who remember what they learned.”
Many churches and associations host Bible Drill compeitions, and there are four state-wide contests schedule for this sping.
“It’s not just about about competition and winning,” Wilson said. “They learn along the way.”
Biblical literacy is important for Christians of any age, but Wilson believes it is key for today’s children.
“This book is not a video game or an iPad, it’s the Word of God,” he said. “It’s great for them to show off what they learn, but I’d much rather they know the meaning behind the ‘Love Chapter’ or the ‘Faith Chapter.’”
Though the state events are already set for the spring, Wilson said he hopes to have regional rallys and informational meetings across the state this summer.
“The great thing about Bible Drill is you can have one kid doing it, or 25 doing it. Any size church can do it.
“It’s the greatest feeling in the world to see them find or quote a verse, and know you’ve helped bury something deep in their heart,” Wilson said.
For more information, contact Wilson at donwilson2008@sbcglobal.net or 417-838-1062, or search for “Missouri Baptist Children’s Bible Drill” on Facebook.