7Mar, 2022
Bible Camp Theme or VBS Curriculum: JONAH


VBS Curriculum: JONAH

This Bible camp theme and VBS curriculum is based on the Old Testament story of Jonah. Jonah’s story as a runaway prophet getting swallowed by a “great fish” resonates with children in many ways. Jonah had to learn the hard way that God loves those we might not like, and calls us to demonstrate mercy in the same manner in which we have received mercy.


Jonah’s story is about someone being rescued by God. Yes, the Ninevites were spared God’s wrath, but the story also shows that God did not give up on Jonah. God gave Jonah a second chance (and more). He didn’t let him run away, and he didn’t let him drown. He could easily have called someone else more faithful to go to Nineveh, someone who had some compassion and mercy toward others. Maybe he used Jonah because Jonah needed God’s rescue―not just from drowning, but from his hard heart.


This resource was designed as a Bible camp curriculum for children 8-12 years of age but can also serve as a VBS theme, a 5-week Sunday morning children’s ministry teaching series, Sunday School lessons, Backyard Bible club, or kids’ sports camp curriculum.



  • (DAY ONE) Jonah Runs From God

  • (DAY TWO) God Rescues Jonah From a Dark Place

  • (DAY THREE) God Gives Jonah a Second Chance

  • (DAY FOUR) Jonah Points to a Real Superhero (JESUS)

  • (DAY FIVE) Jonah Learns About Compassion and Mercy

    • Includes:
  • Lesson Guides (5 Sessions)

  • Group & Team Building Activities

  • Object Lessons & Illustrations

  • *Craft Ideas & Music Playlist

  • Printable Handouts (Talk Sheets)

  • Logo Files & 4K Media Graphics

  • HD PowerPoint Template

  • T-Shirt Logo Design

  • Staff Devotions

    • *Contents does not include craft materials or music files, only links to craft ideas and short playlists with suggested songs to go with each daily lesson theme.