Summer Bible study: Ideas for the whole family

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Summertime is here, and with it comes new rhythms that may disrupt your regular routines. This can have negative effects on your spiritual life—such as foregoing daily prayer and Bible reading amidst the unpredictability that each summer day may bring.

Have you ever considered doing a summer Bible study with your family? It can be a great way to spend time together and grow deeper in faith! From summer Bible studies for kids to Bible studies geared towards adults, there’s something age-appropriate and engaging for everyone in your community. 

Whatever this season is more relaxed or more frantic than other times of the year, summer is an important time to maintain regular time in God’s Word, and finding a solid summer Bible study plan is a good way to do just that. Here are some ideas for summer Bible studies for the whole family to enjoy:

Summer Bible studies for kids

Unless your children are away at summer camp for the whole summer, it’s likely that they have a bit more free time than usual. Here are a few  summer Bible studies for kids to consider:

• Story-Based Studies: Explore famous Bible stories with interactive activities
  • Example: Noah’s Ark Adventure – Read the story of Noah’s Ark, followed by a craft activity where kids create their own ark with animal pairs.
• Nature-Themed Studies: Connect Bible lessons with outdoor activities
  • Example: Creation Walk – Go on a nature walk and identify elements of God’s creation, paired with the Genesis creation story.

Looking for inspiration or a ready-to-use resource? Check out or purchase The Bible Recap Kids’ Devotional.

Summer Bible studies for teens

Like younger children, teenagers usually have more free time in the summer compared to the school year. Even if your teen is working a part-time job, it’s likely they have more time to themself than normal. 

It’s common for teens to struggle with exploring the Bible on their own, and parents sometimes feel unequipped to help their teens in Bible study. Here are some summer Bible studies for teens that you may want to consider to help your teen grow closer to God:

• Topical Studies: Address issues relevant to teens’ lives
  • Example: Handling Peer Pressure – Explore stories of Daniel and his friends, discussing staying true to faith amidst external pressures.
• Interactive and Social Studies: Combine learning with social interaction
  • Example: Scripture & Service – Pair Scripture with action by organizing community service days, reflecting on verses about serving others (e.g., Matthew 25:35-40).

Looking for inspiration or a ready-to-use resource? Check out or purchase Teen Bible Study Book: What You Believe Matters.

Summer Bible studies for women

Women’s ministries and neighborhood get-togethers don’t usually stop in the summertime! In fact, many churches and Christian women work hard to get groups together to study the Bible during the summer months. 

Trying to decide what kind of Bible study to do with your small group this summer? Here are some ideas for summer Bible studies for women:

• Themed Devotionals: Focus on specific aspects of faith and life
  • Example: Women of the Bible – Study the lives of influential biblical women, like Esther and Ruth, and their relevance today.
• Prayer & Fellowship Groups: Foster community and support
  • Example: Virtual Prayer Circle – Weekly virtual meetings focusing on collective prayer and support, sharing personal reflections.

Looking for inspiration or a ready-to-use resource? Check out or purchase Brave and Beloved: A Bible Study for Women Exploring the Wisdom and Diversity of Women in the Bible.

Summer Bible studies for men

It’s true: men’s Bible study groups are less common than they are for women. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Nonetheless, it is good study the Bible in community with one another. Consider these summer Bible studies for men as you plan:

• Character Studies: Learn from the lives of notable biblical figures
  • Example: Life of David – Explore David’s journey from shepherd to king, focusing on leadership and faith.
• Action-Oriented Studies: Incorporate physical activity and discussion
  • Example: Faith & Fitness – Group workouts followed by a Bible study session, tying physical discipline to spiritual discipline.

Looking for inspiration or a ready-to-use resource? Check out or purchase Stand Strong: 365 Devotions for Men by Men.

Stay on track with summer Bible study

Just because routines and rhythms may change for a few months every year, it does not mean you should neglect your spiritual growth and disciplines. Summer Bible study, Bible reading, and prayer are just a few of the ways Christians can maintain a healthy relationship with God and stay committed to their discipleship journeys.

From young kids to grown adults, summer Bible studies are a great resources for the whole family. We hope you find an impactful summer Bible study plan from the list above and find joy in the presence of God this season!

Additional resources you may find helpful

• Top 12 VBS game ideas to try this summer
• 20 summer Bible verses for encouragement & inspiration
• 25 innovative men’s ministry ideas for connection & discipleship
• 25 women’s ministry ideas for faith, fun, & fellowship‍‍