Sermon Insights: Kansas Bible Camp

God's blessings overflow to the ends of the earth

May 3, 2026

Andrew Hawkinson

Message Notes

• Presentation on Kansas Bible Camp (KBC)

  Overview & Purpose

  • 70-year ministry (founded ~1955) focused on introducing people to Jesus Christ and encouraging believers to live for Him.

  • Strong emphasis on God’s Word, generational discipleship, and faithfulness across decades.

  • Camp exists so that God’s blessings overflow to “the ends of the earth” (Psalm 67:7) — not for self-centered filling, but for His glory and the spread of the gospel.

  Key Scriptures Highlighted

  • Psalm 67:7 — “God blesses us, that all the ends of the earth may fear Him.” (Blessing has a missional purpose.)

  • Ecclesiastes 12:1 — “Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come…” (Foundational life priority.)

  • 3 John 1:4 — “I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.”

  • 2 Timothy 2:2 — Generational passing of the faith: entrust to faithful men who will teach others also.

  • Closing reading: “Pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified…” (2 Thessalonians 3:1 implied).

  Camp Traditions & Culture

  • Hobo Breakfast — Bacon, eggs, toast cooked in a skillet over fire (simple, memorable camp tradition).

  • Strong emphasis on God’s Word (shown in old and new camp logos: Bible, cross, hammer, sword, lamp/light — Psalm 119:105).

  • Multi-generational involvement (some families now at 4–5 generations).

  Current Leadership & Staff (All Volunteers)

  • Only 4 directors in 70 years — testimony to God’s faithfulness.

  • Current families/staff (all serve without camp salary; supported by “tent-making” jobs + gifts):

    • Nathanael Hawkinson & Larissa (staff directors).

    • Ben Fisher & Caroline (maintenance, garden).

    • Ben Bailey & Bonnie (maintenance, camp needs).

    • Ethan Meek & Kaleta (cooking; expecting a child).

    • Andrew Hawkinson & Michelle (Asst. Camp director)

    • John Denny & Mary (Camp director; Mary former long-time cook).

  • Weekly Wednesday prayer meetings for unity and preparation.

  Facilities & Operations

  • Main building: Cafeteria/meeting room + dorms (girls upstairs, boys downstairs).

  • Additional: Gym, sports fields, sand volleyball, prayer chapel (A-frame).

  • Recent projects: Pantry remodel (galvanized metal, mouse-proof), kitchen cleaning, etc.

  • Summer focus: Camps for youth (4th–12th grade); retreats year-round.

  Spiritual Vision & Heart

  • Core Goal: Help young people (and all) remember their Creator early, walk in truth, and build a life on Christ.

  • Life is short (70–80 years) — invest in what lasts (relationship with God).

  • Joy in seeing “children” (spiritual or physical) walk in truth.

  • Partnership with local churches (e.g., Sunset Bible Chapel) in the gospel.

  • Emphasis on prayer as essential (“the church moves forward on its knees”).

  Closing Elements

  • Song: “Open to Your Affection” — surrender, openness to God’s correction, protection, and affection.

  • Prayer of thanksgiving, worship of Christ, and request for continued partnership in prayer.

  Takeaways

  • Grateful and humble — heavy emphasis on God’s faithfulness, not human achievement.

  • Family-oriented, multi-generational discipleship model.

  • Practical service — volunteers balancing “tent-making” jobs with full-hearted ministry.

  • Encouragement: Remember your Creator young; walk in truth; pass the faith to the next generation; live so God’s name is glorified and the gospel spreads rapidly.

  The heart of Kansas Bible Camp: a Christ-centered, Word-focused ministry committed to introducing youth to Jesus and helping believers walk faithfully with Him across generations. Excellent for prayer support or understanding the camp’s vision.