Jesus Calls Matthew – Free Printable Preteen Bible Lesson (Matthew 9:9–17)

Matthew 9:9–17
Trueway Word Bible lesson for preteens (ages 8–13)

About This Preteen Bible Lesson

This free printable Bible lesson explores the Bible passage in Matthew 9:9–17 where Jesus calls Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him. Through this account, preteens discover that Jesus calls ordinary people, shows mercy to sinners, and welcomes those who feel far from God.

The lesson follows the Trueway Word W.O.R.D. Bible study method, helping children learn to Walk into God’s Word, Observe what the Bible passage says, Reflect on its meaning, and Discover how to live it out. Preteens will see that following Jesus often begins with a simple step of obedience and grows as we respond to His grace.

The Big Question

Should Christians spend time with people who don’t follow Jesus?

Jesus spent time with people who were far from God because He came to rescue them. In this Bible passage, Jesus sits at Matthew’s table with tax collectors and sinners to show God’s mercy and invite them to follow Him. Christians are called to love people who don’t know God while staying rooted in Jesus so we influence others toward Him.

What Kids Will Learn

• Jesus calls people others might overlook
• Following Jesus begins with a simple step of obedience
• Meeting Jesus leads us to invite others
• God values mercy more than religious performance
• Jesus came to heal the deeper problem of sin

Why This Lesson Matters

Preteens often feel pressure to fit in, judge others, or separate themselves from people who seem different. This Bible lesson helps them understand Jesus’ heart for those who feel excluded or far from God. Children learn that following Jesus means showing mercy, welcoming others, and trusting that God can change lives.

What’s Included

• Printable booklet format
• Single-sided classroom version
• Guided Bible reading from Matthew 9:9–17
• Observation and reflection questions
• Apologetics Big Question discussion
• Weekly “Discover” actions
• Memory verse activity (Matthew 9:9)
• Word search and review activities

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