Jesus Baptism Bible Lesson for Preteens (Matthew 3:13–17)

About This Preteen Bible Lesson

This free printable Bible lesson helps preteens explore the Bible passage in Matthew 3:13–17 and see why Jesus was baptized— not because He sinned, but because He obeyed the Father completely. Children will notice John’s hesitation, the Spirit descending like a dove, and the Father’s clear declaration: “This is My beloved Son.” The lesson follows the Trueway Word W.O.R.D. Bible study method, guiding kids to Walk into God’s Word, Observe what the passage says, Reflect on what it means, and Discover how to live it out through faith-filled weekly actions.

The Big Question

How can God be three in one?
This lesson introduces the Trinity with clarity and humility: the Bible teaches there is one God, revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. At Jesus’ baptism, all three Persons are shown together—one God, perfectly united—so children can trust what God has revealed even when it stretches our understanding.

What Kids Will Learn

• Jesus obeyed His Father perfectly, even when others didn’t understand why
• John the Baptist felt unworthy, and Jesus responded with patience and truth
• The Father openly declared Jesus as His beloved Son
• The Trinity is revealed at Jesus’ baptism: Father speaks, Son obeys, Spirit descends
• God’s way is always wise and good—kids can learn to trust Him with real questions

Why This Lesson Matters

Preteens are learning how to handle uncertainty, identity, and authority. This Bible account reassures them that Jesus is not only kind and near, but also God’s Son—worthy of trust and obedience. It also helps children form a steady worldview: God is not divided or confused, and His unified plan is good, even when we don’t fully understand it yet.

What’s Included

• Full Bible reading (Matthew 3:13–17) with “Setting the Scene” for context
• Observe/Reflect activities (including identity reflection and guided questions)
• Trinity-focused word search and trust reflection scale
• Memory verse writing (Matthew 3:17)
• Weekly “Discover” actions to practice trust, honesty, obedience, and unity
• Prayer page and notes page

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