10 Scriptures to Read This Holy Week to Understand Jesus’ Death and Sacrifice
As Holy Week unfolds, Christians around the world pause to reflect on the profound sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His death on the cross was not only the fulfillment of prophecy—it was the ultimate expression of love and redemption.
If you’re wondering which Bible verses best explain the meaning, purpose, and power of Jesus’ death, this guide offers 10 essential Scriptures to read during Passion Week.
1. Isaiah 53:3–7 — The Suffering Servant Foretold
“He was despised and rejected by mankind… by his wounds we are healed.”
This Old Testament prophecy paints a vivid picture of Jesus’ suffering hundreds of years before the crucifixion. It reveals that His pain was not random—it was part of God’s redemptive plan.
2. John 1:29 — The Lamb of God Who Takes Away Sin
“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
John the Baptist recognizes Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb—a powerful image that connects Jesus’ death to the Passover story and the deliverance of God’s people.
3. Matthew 26:36–39 — Jesus in Gethsemane
“My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me…”
In the Garden of Gethsemane, we witness Jesus’ deep agony—and yet His surrender. It’s a moment that reveals His humanity and obedience to the Father’s will.
4. Luke 22:19–20 — The Last Supper and the New Covenant
“This is my body given for you… This cup is the new covenant in my blood.”
During the Last Supper, Jesus explains that His body and blood would establish a new covenant, offering forgiveness and access to God.
5. Matthew 27:45–46 — The Cry from the Cross
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”
These haunting words reflect the weight of sin that Jesus bore on the cross, quoting Psalm 22—a messianic psalm that foreshadows His suffering.
6. John 19:30 — “It Is Finished”
“It is finished.”
With this declaration, Jesus completed the work of salvation. These three words echo victory, not defeat. The debt of sin was paid in full.
7. Romans 5:6–8 — Christ Died for the Ungodly
“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Paul reminds us that Jesus didn’t die for the righteous, but for the broken. His sacrifice was grace in its purest form.
8. 2 Corinthians 5:21 — The Great Exchange
“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us…”
This verse captures the heart of the Gospel: Jesus took our sin so that we could receive His righteousness.
9. Hebrews 9:12 — Once for All Sacrifice
“He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood…”
Jesus didn’t offer repeated sacrifices like the priests of the Old Testament. His one sacrifice was enough—forever.
10. Philippians 2:8–11 — Obedience Unto Death and Exaltation
“He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
Holy Week is not just about crucifixion—it ends in resurrection. This passage reminds us that Jesus’ humility led to His exaltation. Every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that He is Lord.
Reflect This Holy Week
As you meditate on these Scriptures, take time to pray and reflect. Consider journaling what each verse reveals to you about the depth of Jesus’ love and the cost of your redemption. Let the Word of God lead you closer to the heart of Christ this Holy Week.
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