Yes, you might be surprised to know that there are hundreds of verses in the Old Testament about Jesus.
While they don’t mention Jesus by name, they do mention other names we associate with Him like Messiah, Son of God, and Son of Man.
This is because Jesus and the plan of salvation are central themes of the Bible. Jesus Himself said the Scriptures (the Old Testament in His time) point toward Him and His ministry (John 5:39).
References to Him in the Old Testament can be divided into four categories, which we’ll explore on this page:
After we’ve looked at each one, we’ll also cover how you can notice Jesus in your personal study of the Old Testament.
Messianic prophecies
Messianic prophecies, prophecies predicting the life and identity of the Messiah, are some of the Bible’s most important verses. They show us that God had a plan to send a Savior from the beginning of time, and they help us to recognize Jesus’ role as the Messiah.
And the Bible doesn’t provide just one or two prophecies.
Theologians believe it contains more than 300 Messianic prophecies about Jesus.1
We’ll cover some of those prophecies below, including verses of their prediction in the Old Testament and fulfillment in the New Testament.
Jesus’ birth
Photo by Greyson Joralemon on Unsplash
The Old Testament prophesied the following key points about Jesus’ birth and lineage:
- The Savior would be born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23).
- He would come from the family line of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 12:3; 19:19; 28:14; Luke 3:24).
- He would come from the line of David and thus have a direct claim to the throne (Isaiah 9:6-7; Acts 13:22-23).
- He would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:4-6).
- He would be born among the Jewish people (Isaiah 9:6-7; Matthew 27:37).
Jesus’ life and ministry
- He would be called out of Egypt (Hosea 11:1; Matthew 2:14-15).
- He would be from Nazareth in Galilee (Isaiah 9:1-2; 11:1; Matthew 2:23; John 7:41).
- He would be preceded by a great messenger, John the Baptist (Isaiah 40:3-4; John 1:23).
- He would be called God’s Son (2 Samuel 7:14; Matthew 3:17).
- He would be a servant of God (Isaiah 53:11; Philippians 2:6-8; Matthew 10:45).
- He would perform miracles (Isaiah 35:5-6, Matthew 11:2-6).
- He would speak in parables (Psalm 78:1-2; Matthew 13:34-35).
- He would come into Jerusalem on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9-10; Matthew 21:1-11).
- He would minister to all nations—both Jews and Gentiles (Isaiah 11:10; John 12:18-21; Romans 1:16).
- He would be rejected as Messiah (Isaiah 53:3; Luke 4:28-29).
Jesus’ death and resurrection
Photo by Alicia Quan on Unsplash
- He would suffer and die for the sins of the world (Isaiah 19:20; 53:5, 12; John 1:12; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 2:24).
- His victory would end the reign of Satan and sin (Genesis 3:15; 1 John 3:8).
- He would end the old covenant and start a new covenant (Jeremiah 31:31; Hebrews 9:15).
- He would be stripped of His clothing by Roman soldiers (Psalm 22:18; John 19:23-24).
- He would be beaten and mocked (Isaiah 50:6; Luke 22:63).
- He would be pierced in His hands and feet (Isaiah 53:3; Psalm 22:16; John 19:34).
- He would hang on a tree (Deuteronomy 21:22-23; Acts 5:30).
- He would be given vinegar to drink (Psalm 69:21; Matthew 27:34).
- He would resurrect from the dead (Psalm 118:17-18; Luke 24:5-7).
Each one of these verses was precisely fulfilled, giving us amazing evidence of Jesus’ role as the Messiah. They also show us that the Old Testament can teach us a lot about our New Testament Savior.
Christophanies
Christophanies refer to any time Jesus appears to humans. In the case of the Old Testament, we’re talking about any time He appears in the Bible prior to His human birth (called His pre-incarnate form).
Some of the most obvious examples are when the Godhead is mentioned or Jesus is “seen” in visions or miraculous events as the Son of God.
Here are a few examples:
Jesus at Creation with God
In Genesis 1:26, God said, “Let Us make man in Our image.” The use of plural words and the fact that only God can create suggests the presence of the Trinity—and thus the presence of God the Son, Jesus.
John 1:1-3 confirms this idea by telling us that the Word (Jesus, according to John 1:14) is God and created the world.
The Godhead at the Tower of Babel
In Genesis 11:6-7, God again uses plural words, saying, presumably to the Holy Spirit and God the Son, that they must put a stop to the building of the Tower of Babel.
The Son of Man coming to the throne in heaven
In Daniel 7:13-14, Daniel saw a vision of the Son of Man going to the throne of God and receiving the kingdom before coming to earth. The description sounds like the event that will happen right before Jesus’ second coming.
The Son of God in the fiery furnace
Although some Bible verses might refer to godly men by the term “sons of God” (Galatians 3:26-27), Jesus is the specific, singular Son of God.
In Daniel 3:35, Nebuchadnezzar recognizes a figure in the fiery furnace as a divine being. He calls the being the Son of God, suggesting Jesus’ presence in the fiery furnace.
The Son of God is also mentioned in Psalm 2:7, 11-12 and Proverbs 30:4.
Types
Photo by Pixabay
Types are Old Testament stories/characters/experiences that are reflected or fulfilled in the New Testament (the fulfillment is called an antitype). We see many of these similarities between characters of the Old Testament and Jesus.
Take a look at these examples:
Adam
The apostle Paul outright compares Jesus to Adam, calling Jesus the “second” Adam (1 Corinthians 15:45-49). Adam received dominion over the world but lost it when he sinned. On the other hand, Jesus regained dominion of the world by overcoming sin.
Abel
Like Jesus, Abel was faithful to God (Genesis 4:4). But because he was faithful, his brother killed him in a jealous rage (Genesis 4:5-8). Jesus was similarly killed by His own people who were jealous of His popularity (John 12:19) and angered at the way His pure character exposed their selfish hearts (Mark 11:15-18).
Isaac
Like Jesus, Isaac had a supernatural birth (Matthew 1:23; Genesis 21:1-2). He was offered by his father, Abraham, as a sacrifice (Genesis 22:2), foreshadowing how God the Father would give Jesus to save us from our sins and grant us eternal life (John 3:16).
Joseph
Just as Jesus was rejected by His people (Isaiah 53:3), Joseph was hated by his brothers (Genesis 37:4). They sold him for silver (Genesis 37:28), similar to how Judas betrayed Jesus for silver (Matthew 26:15). They were both falsely accused (Genesis 39:10-20; Mark 14:55-56), but were eventually set up as rulers (Genesis 41:41; John 18:36).
And even though his brothers betrayed him, Joseph still saved them from the coming famine (Genesis 45:4-7), just as Jesus had mercy on us and died for us while we were still sinners.
David
At different times in his life, David filled the positions of servant (1 Samuel 16:21), shepherd (1 Samuel 17:34-36), and king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:1-19). Similarly, Jesus is said to be a servant (Matthew 20:28), shepherd (John 10:11), and king of heaven (Ephesians 1:20-21).
Moses
Moses and Jesus’ births happened under similar circumstances: both escaped a brutal child massacre in their infancy (Exodus 1:22-2:10; Matthew 2:13-18).
And there’s more:
Moses acted as an intercessor between God and the Israelites (Exodus 20:19), and so does Jesus between God and us today (Romans 8:34). They both fasted for 40 days (Exodus 24:28; Matthew 4:2). Moses was also responsible for leading the Israelites out of Egyptian slavery (Exodus 3:7-10), just as Jesus delivers us from the slavery of sin (Romans 6:20-22).
Symbols
Photo by Pixabay
Jesus is intentionally referred to in the Old Testament by numerous symbols, including the following:
Passover lamb
Jesus is described as being the lamb of God that takes away sin (John 1:29). This symbol connects us to the idea of the Passover lamb that pointed the Israelites to what the Messiah would do for them (Exodus 12:5-6).
Shepherd
The Old Testament compares the Lord to a shepherd (Psalm 23:1-6). Jesus called Himself a shepherd who guides His followers (John 10:11).
High priest
The Old Testament explains the role of the Levite priests in the ancient Israelite sanctuary (Numbers 3:5-10). They performed the sacrifices and rituals that pointed to the Messiah.
Hebrews 4:14-16 and 8:1-2 show us that Jesus fulfills those symbols as the high priest in the heavenly sanctuary.
Snake on a rod
In Numbers 21:9-10, the Israelites were saved from a plague by looking at a bronze snake sculpted to a rod. This foreshadowed how we can be saved by accepting the crucifixion of Christ, who took on our sins to save us (1 Peter 2:24).
How you can notice Jesus throughout the Bible
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
When we start looking for ways we can see Jesus in Scripture, it changes our entire Bible study experience . What might have previously been an unusual story or a long description of ancient practices will now help us see Jesus and the plan of salvation in a new light.
Here are some steps for doing just that:
- Pray for God to guide your study.
- Decide on a passage or story.
- Read through it once.
- Read a second time, this time writing down connections you see between the passage and one (or more) of the following subjects:
- The plan of salvation
- The presence of the Godhead—specifically God the Son
- Christ-like characteristics in other Bible characters
- Symbols of Jesus—especially ones that talk about His sacrifice
- Compare these connections with what you find about Jesus in the New Testament.
- Reflect on how your study has better helped you understand the Bible and God’s great love for you.
- Lastly, tell others about what you learned! Your study can help them connect Scriptures in ways they never imagined.
Want help diving deeper into your study? Check out these study tools and references:
- Biblehub.com
- Vines Expository Dictionary App
- KJV Bible With Strong’s Concordance App
- Biblegateway.com
- Doug Batchelor’s Cover to Cover — Jesus in all the Bible series
Just like with any kind of Bible study, it’s okay to start small. Write down your findings, and if you find something confusing, take note of it and keep looking for answers. The answers may not always be apparent right away, but the Holy Spirit will continue to guide you and reveal them to you as you study.
For more tips, see our “Ultimate Guide to Personal Bible Study.”
Jesus is the theme of Scripture
The fact that so much of the Old Testament references Jesus goes to show how important our Savior is.
The plan of salvation wasn’t made last minute. Even before Eve took a bite of the forbidden fruit, God had a plan to save humanity by sending His one and only Son (Revelation 13:8).
And we can see that plan woven into the stories of the Old Testament, making the story of Jesus and salvation the central message of the entire Bible.
If you want to learn more about what the Bible has to say about Jesus’ role as our Savior,
Choose an Online Bible Study
Want to keep learning? Find out more about Jesus, humanity, the plan of salvation, and how God loves you enough to sacrifice everything, just to give you a chance to choose Him.
Sometimes it can be hard to know where to start, that’s why we offer free, user-friendly, online Bible study options you can do anytime, anywhere, and at your own pace.
This online Bible school will take you through the major themes of Scripture, breaking down the Bible’s complex concepts into bite-sized pieces, which can lead you toward the answers of life’s more challenging questions.
- “55 Old Testament Prophecies about Jesus, Jesus Film Project, November 17, 2021,” https://www.jesusfilm.org/blog/old-testament-prophecies/. [↵]
More Answers
What Is the 70-Week Prophecy in Daniel 9
Could a prophecy accurately predict an event over 500 years before it was supposed to happen?
The 70-week prophecy of Daniel 9 did, culminating in one of the most important events in earth’s history: Jesus’ sacrifice for us on the cross.
Do Seventh-day Adventists Believe in Hell?
Seventh-day Adventists believe that any human being who accepts God’s free gift of salvation through Jesus will be given eternal life. But what about the eternal fate of those who choose not to accept Jesus?
Sola Scriptura—What It Means and Why It Matters
Sola scriptura is a term that originated during the Protestant Reformation. It represents the way many Christians view the Bible and its authority. While the idea is simple enough, there is so much more to sola scriptura than its basic definition.
What Do Adventists Offer for Young Adults?
In recent years, the age group often classified as “young adults” has been trickier to engage. It’s been a significant concern for Christian churches around the world. Though interestingly enough, similar observations regarding young adults have been coming up in conversations about the economy, the entertainment industry, politics, and more.
King David: How Was He a Man After God’s Own Heart?
War, bloodshed, murder, adultery—all of these crimes overshadowed the life of a biblical Old Testament man named David. Yet he was called a man after God’s own heart, not to mention one of Israel’s greatest heroes and kings.
Do Seventh-day Adventists Believe in the Secret Rapture
The secret rapture belief asserts that the followers of Jesus will be suddenly and stealthily “raptured” from earth and taken to heaven. Then, any people left on earth will face a period of great difficulty—before Christ’s second coming actually happens.
Do I Need to be an Adventist to be Saved?
The answer to this question is simply, “no.”
When it comes to salvation in Jesus Christ, all that is required of a person is to acknowledge Jesus’ sacrifice for us, believe that He has saved us, and claim the free gift of salvation that is always available to us. Salvation is not based on denomination.
Do You Have to Be Vegetarian to Be Adventist?
Of course not. Membership in the Seventh-day Adventist Church has never included any dietary requirements. However, there might be some reasons people might think that. So many Adventists are vegetarians or even vegan, and a plant-based lifestyle has many health benefits.
What Does the Bible Say About the End Times?
First of all, when we say “end times,” this refers to the period of time that precedes the second coming of Jesus—and the end of this sinful world before it’s recreated into the new earth. And several passages of Scripture provide us with clues and guidelines to help us recognize when these times are near, what kinds of things we can expect, and what it might mean for our daily lives and priorities.
All About Seventh-day Adventist Colporteurs
The Seventh-day Adventist Church uses a variety of methods to spread the hope of the gospel to the world. One of these ways is through colporteuring, also called “canvassing” or “literature evangelism.”
How Ellen White Influenced the Adventist Health Message
Seventh-day Adventists are known for their emphasis on healthy living. And Ellen G. White was a significant influence in the development of this priority and practice among Adventists.
Does Prayer Work? If So, How Are Prayers Answered?
Prayer is how human beings reach out to a higher power. For Christians, it’s how we communicate with God. But does it really work? Is it true that God actually intervenes in situations when we call out to Him for help? And why are some prayers answered immediately, while others seem to go unanswered or not get answered for a long time?
What Did Ellen White Teach About Vegetarianism?
One thing you might have heard about Seventh-day Adventists is their emphasis on a vegetarian lifestyle. If you’re wondering why that is, it goes back to our church’s humble beginnings:
Steps to Christ: A Guide to a Relationship with Jesus
Whether you’re just starting your journey with Jesus Christ, are coming back after some time away, or have had a relationship with Jesus for years, using a book—in addition to the Bible—to guide or supplement that relationship can be helpful, comforting, and joyful.
What Is an Adventist Book Center (ABC)?
When you walk into any one of the many Adventist Book Center (ABC) locations, chances are you’ll be greeted by pleasant gospel music in the background, friendly employees, and row after row of Christian books, movies, Bibles, study guides, kids’ games, and more.
Prayer—How Do I Do It?
Prayer is intentional communication with God. And the way you go about it is much like how you’d communicate with your best friend. You can reach out anytime and anywhere, in the way that’s most natural between the two of you.
15 Examples of Prayer in the Bible
Prayer is the primary way we maintain our relationship with God. It’s our method of communication, and He miraculously hears every word that comes from our hearts.
Do Seventh-day Adventists Celebrate Holidays?
Wondering whether your Adventist classmate or coworker keeps the same holidays you do? Perhaps you want to include them in some festivities, but you also want to respect their beliefs. Thus, you’re unsure of how to navigate the holiday question. Will they accept your invitation to the office Christmas party?
Ellen White and Adventist Healthcare—Ahead of Their Time
Medical care in the mid-1800s was primitive, to say the least. Basic concepts we take for granted—such as proper handwashing or recognizing the dangers of bloodletting—were nonexistent. And doctors often had little more than nine months of training!
How Ellen White’s Teachings Can Improve Your Health
Healthcare in the nineteenth century was said to leave “more disease than it took away” with its use of bloodletting and “medicines” like mercury and arsenic. As people questioned these methods, new approaches popped up. But which ones were reliable?
Do Adventists Worship Ellen White?
Ellen White was a co-founder and leader in the Seventh-day Adventist Church from its beginning. Adventists believe that she had the prophetic gift (Ephesians 4:14; 1 Corinthians 12:28) and passes the biblical tests of a prophet.
Can I Be an Adventist If I Don’t Believe in Ellen White?
Ellen White is an important part of the Seventh-day Adventist Church: she played a significant role in its founding, provided biblical support for several key doctrines, and continues to inspire church members today with her insightful counsel.
The Adventist Haystack (It’s Not What You Think) + 4 Recipes
Haystacks are basically a taco salad—with an Adventist spin on it! Most versions are vegetarian and offer an endless combination of tasty toppings. We eat them often because they’re healthy, scrumptious, and easy to make.
Do Seventh-day Adventists Believe in Medical Care?
The Seventh-day Adventist Church believes in and supports evidence-based medical care. In fact, medicine has played a significant part in our history, and today we run a major health system with hospitals, medical schools, and clinics throughout the world.
Why do Adventists Emphasize Religious Liberty?
Adventists see religious liberty as an essential human right. After all, God endowed humanity with freedom of choice from the very beginning. So we believe it’s best for governments to also support their citizens’ rights to worship based on their convictions.
All about Adventist Elementary Schools
The Seventh-day Adventist Church operates the largest Protestant education system in the world. A big part of this system is our K-8 elementary schools, or primary schools, as they’re known in other parts of the world.
What Are Pathfinder and Adventurer Clubs?
Like the boy or girl scouts, Pathfinders and Adventurers learn about nature and life skills. But what makes these clubs special is their purpose to bring young people closer to Jesus.
13th Sabbath Offering: What It Is and Why It Matters
While the previous 12 Sabbaths of the quarter feature an established Adventist ministry and its current giving needs, the 13th is a rotating spot reserved for current mission projects.
A Look at Adventist Colleges and Universities
On the outside, Seventh-day Adventist universities may not look much different than other college campuses. But the real differences are beneath the surface.
Didn’t find your answer? Ask us!
We understand your concern of having questions but not knowing who to ask—we’ve felt it ourselves. When you’re ready to learn more about Adventists, send us a question! We know a thing or two about Adventists.