These next lessons provide a good opportunity to share the salvation message with your children.
This story is often depicted with a dove above Jesus. Note that the Bible does not say there was actually a dove. The author uses a simile, a comparison using like or as, to describe the Spirit of God coming down upon him.
(note: this story also occurs in Mark 1:1-11 and Luke 3:1-22 )
This is a short story and is best read directly from the scripture.
Have you ever seen someone be baptized at your church? What is baptism?
Today, we are going to learn about when Jesus was baptized by a man named John. We call him John the Baptist.
Read story from a Children's storybook Bible for younger children.
For older children, read the story from an age-appropriate Children's storybook Bible or read directly from the Bible.
Scripture for Kids to Read Aloud: Matthew 3:1-17
First, ask the children if they have any questions about the story. What to do if you don't know the answer?
Scripture For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness: - 'Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.'" Matthew 3:3
Supplies balls of paper, chairs, toys and other obstacles, masking tape
Scripture John's clothes were made out of camel's hair. He had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. John 3:4
Supplies twix candy bars, pretzel twists, pecans, black gel icing, brown icing, bread or rolls, honey
Scripture As soon as Jesus was baptized, he came up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened. Jesus saw the Spirit of God coming down on him like a dove. Matthew 3:16
Supplies white card stock or construction paper, blue paper or blue cellophane, brads, clear tape, scissors
Heads up! This activity would be good to use as you are teaching the lesson
Scripture As soon as Jesus was baptized, he came up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened. Jesus saw the Spirit of God coming down on him like a dove. Matthew 3:16
Supplies tub of water, waterproof baby doll (with clothes), water
Supplies larger and small paper plates. Jesus and John printables. popsicle sticks. glue, crayons, scissors.
Scripture John's clothes were made out of camel's hair. He had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. John 3:4
Supplies Person sheet, brown yarn, leather string
Scripture As soon as Jesus was baptized, he came up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened. Jesus saw the Spirit of God coming down on him like a dove. Matthew 3:16
Supplies tubs, water, towels, small cups and other water toys