Raising Champions for Christ

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When Anastasia Brown was 8 years old, her family stumbled across a homeschooling magazine advertising the National Bible Bee Competition. At the time, it seemed like a simple opportunity – a fun, engaging way to learn the Bible. So, they signed her up.

Unbeknownst to them, that one decision would shape not only Anastasia’s life, but their entire family.

Although they found the 10-week summer study to be a challenge, they also realized Anastasia had an amazing gift to absorb all she was learning, retain it, and memorize scripture with ease.

By the end of that summer, she had passed the qualifying test for nationals – an exceptional feat in itself.

Not knowing what to expect, Anastasia and her dad struck out across the country to compete. What they discovered was far more than competition. They found a community of families raising their children to be champions, not just on a stage but in everyday life, grounded firmly in the Word of God.

Now 20 years old, Anastasia is grateful for her parents’ decision. After that first experience, she participated every single year until she aged out at 18. Along the way, she placed 5th in the primary division in 2016 and won first place in the junior division in 2020.

She now returns to nationals each year as a part of the alumni, to serve as a judge and cheer on the next generation of participants.

Throughout her years in Bible Bee, Anastasia grew in her understanding of the Bible, deepened her faith, and learned hundreds of passages. Realizing the importance of hiding God’s Word in her heart, she also began to invest time helping her three younger siblings. Remarkably, two of them were last year’s winners in the primary and junior divisions.

“I try to be a constant source of encouragement to them and motivate them to press on,” she states. “It can be overwhelming at times, but I remind them that it’s not just about studying for a competition. All that we are learning is for God’s glory, not earthly purposes.”

The process of studying and memorizing Scripture isn’t just about preparing for a big event for the Brown family – it’s a daily rhythm. Verses are no longer just words to recall, but truths to understand, discuss, and live out together. Study sessions turn into meaningful conversations. Memorization is now a shared discipline. These summer studies have shaped their home, deepened their family bond, and strengthened their foundation.

“I will never regret the time I invested in Bible Bee. In whatever situation I am in, the Lord brings to my remembrance His Word to guide me and help me make the right decisions to honor Him,” says Anastasia.

According to the National Bible Bee, over 92,610 children, just like the Brown siblings, have been impacted since its founding in 2009. The organization is endorsed by well-known Christian leaders such as Tony Perkins, Ken Ham, and the late James Dobson. These endorsement partners believe Bible Bee is far more than just a competition. They see it as a program that strengthens families by encouraging shared Scripture study and spiritual growth, while also having a broader impact on the community and our nation. By teaching children to engage deeply with God’s Word, Bible Bee fosters a generation of young people rooted in faith, integrity, and character – values that can shape homes, schools, and society for years to come.

Registration for the 2026 summer study is open from March to May, with early-bird registration ending on March 31. Whether your family’s goal is competition or simply digging deeper, Bible Bee offers a structured, enjoyable way for children ages 5-18 to immerse themselves in Scripture – just 20 minutes a day, five days a week.

This year’s theme, Thrive, centers on the book of James, guiding students toward a faith that is active, resilient, and growing – especially in the midst of persecution and fiery trials.

Interestingly, despite the endless apps, podcasts, and online resources available, a 2016 Barna study revealed that 70% of teens prefer reading from a physical Bible. The summer study provides an excellent opportunity to teach children not only how to actually study the Bible in their hands, but also how to understand and articulate their faith. By using the inductive study method (observe, interpret, apply) along with learning the context, geography, culture, cross references, and original language, students gain the confidence and tools they need to give a thoughtful defense for their faith and fulfill the Great Commission.

Many families will seek championships in various sporting events this summer, but trophies fade. Rings are lost. Titles are eventually surpassed, but the Word of God endures forever.

The Brown family’s simple act of obedience – saying “yes” to raising champions for Christ – not only earned earthly prizes, but more importantly, rewards that are eternal and generational. The Brown’s dedication and perseverance are extraordinary, but their true legacy isn’t found in National Bible Bee championships – their victory is in Jesus.

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