AWANA, an acronym for “Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed,” is a global evangelical Christian organization focused on youth ministry. The program, which began in the 1950s, is designed to teach children and teenagers the Bible, help them develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and encourage them to live out their faith. From a biblical perspective, AWANA is rooted in the principle of training children in the way they should go, with a strong emphasis on Scripture memorization, biblical knowledge, and Christian discipleship.

Biblical Foundation of AWANA

The Key Verse: 2 Timothy 2:15

The name AWANA is derived from 2 Timothy 2:15, a verse that captures the essence of the program’s mission.

2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV):
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”

This verse emphasizes the importance of diligence in studying and correctly understanding the Word of God. AWANA seeks to instill this diligence in young people, encouraging them to become “approved workmen” who are confident in their knowledge of Scripture and able to apply it to their lives.

Training Up a Child

AWANA’s focus on children and youth is also rooted in the biblical principle of instructing the next generation in the ways of the Lord.

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV):
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”

This verse reflects the importance of early spiritual education, which is a core component of AWANA’s mission. By teaching children the Bible from a young age, AWANA aims to lay a strong spiritual foundation that will guide them throughout their lives.

The Structure of AWANA

Age-Appropriate Programs

AWANA is structured to meet the spiritual needs of different age groups, from preschoolers to high school students. The program is typically divided into the following segments:

• Cubbies (Preschool): This program is designed for children ages 3 to 5, introducing them to basic biblical truths through stories, activities, and simple Scripture memorization.
• Sparks (Grades K-2): Sparks is for kindergarten through second-grade students and focuses on helping children understand key Bible stories and concepts. The Sparks program encourages Scripture memorization and helps children begin to apply biblical truths to their lives.
• T&T (Truth & Training, Grades 3-6): The T&T program is for children in third through sixth grade. It goes deeper into biblical teaching, encouraging more advanced Scripture memorization and helping children develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Trek (Middle School) and Journey (High School): These programs are designed for older students, offering more in-depth Bible study, discipleship, and leadership training. Trek and Journey aim to equip teenagers with the tools they need to live out their faith in a challenging world.

Scripture Memorization

A significant aspect of AWANA is its emphasis on Scripture memorization. Participants are encouraged to memorize Bible verses, often earning awards or badges for their achievements. This practice is based on the biblical teaching that storing God’s Word in one’s heart is crucial for spiritual growth and resisting temptation.

Psalm 119:11 (NIV):
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

Memorizing Scripture helps children and teens internalize God’s Word, making it a guiding force in their lives.

Discipleship and Evangelism

AWANA places a strong emphasis on discipleship, aiming to help children and teenagers grow in their faith and become followers of Christ who actively share their faith with others. The program encourages participants to live out the Great Commission by making disciples and spreading the gospel.

Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV):
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

AWANA equips young people to be witnesses for Christ, both within their communities and beyond.

The Impact of AWANA

Spiritual Growth and Maturity

AWANA has had a significant impact on the spiritual growth and maturity of countless children and teenagers around the world. By providing a structured and supportive environment for learning about the Bible, AWANA helps participants develop a strong foundation of faith that can sustain them throughout their lives.

Community and Fellowship

In addition to its educational focus, AWANA fosters a sense of community and fellowship among participants. The program often includes games, activities, and group discussions that help build relationships and create a supportive network of peers who share similar values and beliefs.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV):
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

By encouraging regular fellowship and mutual support, AWANA helps participants strengthen their faith and stay committed to their Christian walk.

Equipping Future Leaders

Through its emphasis on biblical teaching, discipleship, and leadership training, AWANA plays a crucial role in equipping the next generation of Christian leaders. Many participants go on to serve in their churches, communities, and missions, carrying forward the principles they learned in AWANA.

Conclusion

AWANA, with its focus on teaching children and teenagers the Bible, encouraging Scripture memorization, and fostering discipleship, is a vital ministry in the Christian community. Rooted in the biblical mandate to train up children in the way they should go, AWANA provides young people with the tools they need to grow in their faith and live out their Christian beliefs. Through its structured programs, emphasis on community, and commitment to evangelism, AWANA helps shape future generations of believers who are grounded in the Word of God and equipped to make a positive impact in the world for Christ.