Jesus and Nicodemus – John 3 – Preteen Bible Lesson

About This Preteen Bible Lesson

This free printable Bible lesson explores the Bible passage of Jesus and Nicodemus in John 3:1–21, helping preteens understand what it truly means to be “born again.” Through the nighttime conversation between Jesus and a respected religious leader, children discover that faith is not about self-improvement or earning God’s love, but about receiving new life through trust in Christ.

Using the Trueway Word W.O.R.D. Bible study method, this preteen Bible lesson guides children to Walk into the passage, Observe what Scripture says, Reflect on what it means, and Discover how to live it out. It is designed for Sunday school, homeschool, and family devotions, giving adults a structured and meaningful way to disciple growing thinkers.

The Big Question

What does it actually mean to “believe” in Jesus?

Believing in Jesus is more than agreeing that He exists. In this passage, Jesus explains that belief means trusting Him for new life. It is not about trying harder or being better, but about depending on Him the way someone depends on rescue. Faith shifts confidence from ourselves to Christ.

What Kids Will Learn

• Why Nicodemus came to Jesus with honest questions
• What Jesus meant by being “born again”
• That salvation is a gift, not a reward for good behaviour
• How the Holy Spirit works quietly but powerfully, like the wind
• Why John 3:16 reveals the heart of the gospel
• What it means to trust Jesus personally

Why This Lesson Matters

Preteens are forming beliefs about identity, performance, and acceptance. Many quietly assume that God’s love must be earned. This Bible passage gently reshapes that thinking. Jesus teaches that new life begins with God’s love and the Spirit’s work — not human effort. By studying this account, children begin to see that Christianity is transformation from the inside out, not rule-keeping from the outside in.

This lesson also creates space for questions. Like Nicodemus, children learn that bringing honest doubts to Jesus is not weakness — it is the beginning of deeper faith.

What’s Included

• Printable booklet format (ideal for individual use)
• Single-sided classroom version
• Full Bible reading from John 3:1–21
• Guided observation and reflection questions
• Teaching on John 3:16
• Practical weekly “Discover” faith actions
• Creative activity (pinwheel craft illustrating John 3:8)
• Prayer and journaling space

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