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Official Competition Rules & Guidelines
The International Christian Youth Bible Bowl is more than a test of knowledge—it is a celebration of God’s Word, a platform for Christian fellowship, and an opportunity for young believers to grow in faith through healthy competition. These Official Competition Rules & Guidelines are designed to ensure fairness, encourage sportsmanship, and create an atmosphere where every participant can thrive. Whether you are a first-time competitor or a returning champion, understanding and following these guidelines will help us keep the focus on what matters most: glorifying God through the study, application, and sharing of His Word. Every question, every round, and every interaction is a chance to reflect Christ’s character and honor His truth.
Eligibility & Team Structure
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Each team must consist of 4-6 members, ages 6th-8th grade, officially representing a registered church, youth group, or Christian school.
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Teams must have a designated Team Coordinator (Pastor, Youth Leader, or Church Representative).
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A team may choose to use one preferred Bible translation (options: KJV, NIV, ESV).
Competition Format & Structure
Preliminary Rounds:
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Teams answer multiple-choice & short-answer questions in written format.
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The top 16 teams advance based on accuracy & time efficiency.
Semifinal Round:
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Buzzer-style competition with rapid-fire Scripture references.
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Teams must recite & explain select Bible verses and themes.
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The top 4 teams advance to finals based on total score.
Final Round:
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Includes Bible-based case studies and real-world application questions.
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Teams must demonstrate critical thinking, knowledge depth, and teamwork.
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The winning team is determined by total points from all rounds combined.
Scoring System & Points Allocation
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Multiple-Choice Questions: 5 points per correct answer
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Short-Answer Responses: 10 points per correct answer
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Buzzer-Based Responses: 15 points per correct answer
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Scripture Recitation & Explanation: 20 points per correct answer
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Case Study Analysis: Up to 30 points per response (judged on depth & clarity)
Judging Panel & Rules Enforcement
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The judging panel consists of pastors, biblical scholars, and Christian educators.
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Judges will assess accuracy, biblical references, logical reasoning, and scriptural depth.
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If a team disputes a ruling, they may request an official review within 2 minutes of the round ending.
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Teams showing poor sportsmanship, arguing, or disrespect may receive a point deduction or disqualification.
Conduct & Christian Sportsmanship
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All participants must demonstrate respect, humility, and fellowship in competition.
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Disruptive behavior (verbal disputes, hostility, or intentional rule violations) will result in disciplinary action.
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The competition is designed to glorify God—not just win! Team spirit, encouragement, and unity are highly encouraged.
Judging Criteria & Evaluation Breakdown
1 Accuracy & Biblical Knowledge (40%)
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Correctness of answers
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Ability to recall exact scripture references
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Application of biblical themes
2 Depth & Explanation (30%)
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Teams must not only answer but explain the significance of their responses
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Understanding of scripture beyond memorization
3 Speed & Response Timing (20%)
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Teams receive bonus points for faster responses in buzzer rounds
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Quick thinking while maintaining biblical accuracy
4 Teamwork & Communication (10%)
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Teams are judged on collaboration and respectful discourse
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Encouragement, unity, and display of Christian leadership.
"Earnestly Contend for the Faith Which was Once Delivered unto the Saints"
Schedule at a Glance: International Youth Bible Bowl 2026
Days | Description | Activities |
|---|---|---|
Sunday, June 14, 2026 | Arrival & Welcome | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Check-In & Registration
Venue: Hotel Lobby / Event Center
Team packets, badges, welcome kits
7:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Welcome Reception & Orientation
Icebreakers, team intros, rules overview
8:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Evening Devotion & Worship
Led by local youth ministry
9:00 PM | Lights Out / Curfew for Youth |
Monday, June 15, 2026 | Preliminary Rounds Begin | 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM | Breakfast
8:45 AM – 9:15 AM | Morning Devotion
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM | Preliminary Round 1
Multiple-choice & short-answer questions
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | Lunch
1:15 PM – 3:45 PM | Preliminary Round 2
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Team Building Activity
Beach games or Bible scavenger hunt
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Dinner
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Evening Worship & Guest Speaker
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Fellowship & Free Time
9:00 PM | Lights Out / Curfew |
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | Semifinals & Spiritual Growth | 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM | Breakfast
8:45 AM – 9:15 AM | Morning Devotion
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM | Semifinal Rounds
Buzzer-style Q&A, scripture recitations
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | Lunch
1:15 PM – 2:30 PM | Leadership & Faith Workshop
Youth-led panels, breakout sessions
2:45 PM – 4:00 PM | Cultural Excursion / Local Mission Visit
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Dinner
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Praise Night & Talent Showcase
Music, spoken word, testimonies
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Fellowship & Reflection
9:00 PM | Lights Out / Curfew |
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | Grand Finale & Awards | 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM | Breakfast
8:45 AM – 9:15 AM | Morning Devotion
9:30 AM – 10:45 AM | Final Round
Rapid-fire challenges, Bible case studies
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Grand Finale & Awards Ceremony
$10,000 prize presentation, certificates, closing remarks
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | Farewell Lunch
1:00 PM onward | Departures |
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