Bible Verses

50+ Bible Verses About The Messiah In The Old Testament

Updated:
April 10, 2025
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Author:
Joseph Cox

Ever wondered how the Old Testament points to the Messiah? This article brings together 50 Bible verses that highlight these prophetic moments.

From Genesis to Malachi, these verses offer a glimpse into the anticipation and hope for the coming Messiah. Each verse is a piece of the puzzle, revealing a bigger picture.

What Does the Bible Say About The Messiah In The Old Testament

The Old Testament offers a rich tapestry of verses that point to the coming of the Messiah. These verses are filled with hope, promise, and a sense of divine purpose. They paint a picture of a figure who will bring justice, peace, and healing to a world in need. As we reflect on these verses, we can find inspiration and guidance for our own lives.

One key theme is the promise of a savior who will bring justice and peace. Verses like Isaiah 9:6-7 and Micah 5:2 speak of a leader who will rule with wisdom and fairness. This promise encourages us to seek justice in our own lives and to trust that true peace is always within reach.

Another important theme is the suffering and sacrifice of the Messiah. Isaiah 53:3-5 and Psalm 22:1 remind us that even in the darkest times, there is a purpose to our struggles. These verses offer comfort and hope, showing that suffering can lead to healing and redemption.

The role of the Messiah as a bringer of light and hope is also prominent. Isaiah 60:1-3 and Joel 2:28-32 highlight the transformative power of divine light and the inclusivity of God's love. These verses invite us to be a source of light and hope for others, spreading kindness and compassion in our daily lives.

Finally, the coming of the Messiah is a theme filled with anticipation and preparation. Verses like Isaiah 7:14 and Malachi 3:1 remind us that we are never alone and that a path is always being prepared for us. This encourages us to stay hopeful and to trust in the divine plan, even when the way forward seems uncertain.

50 Bible Verses About The Messiah In The Old Testament

10 Bible Verses on Prophecies of The Messiah In The Old Testament

1) Genesis 3:15

Genesis 3:15

And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.

Meaning: This verse hints at a cosmic struggle, where ultimate victory is promised despite the ongoing conflict. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, triumph is assured.

2) Isaiah 7:14

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.

Meaning: While the world often tells us to rely on our own strength, this verse reveals a divine promise of hope and presence. It reminds us that even in our most challenging times, we are not alone; God is with us.

3) Micah 5:2

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.

Meaning: It's fascinating to consider how greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places. This verse invites us to rethink where we look for true leadership and wisdom.

4) Isaiah 9:6-7

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Meaning: Imagine a leader who brings endless peace and justice, someone who carries the weight of the world with grace and strength. This verse speaks directly to your heart, offering a vision of hope and unwavering stability.

5) Zechariah 9:9

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that true leadership often comes in humility and gentleness. Embrace moments of quiet strength and let them guide you through challenges.

6) Isaiah 53:5

But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.

Meaning: Ever wondered how true healing can come from suffering? This verse challenges our understanding of strength and sacrifice, showing that sometimes, the greatest love is found in the deepest pain.

7) Jeremiah 23:5-6

Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, that I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; A King shall reign and prosper, and execute judgment and righteousness in the earth. In His days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell safely; Now this is His name by which He will be called: THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

Meaning: Envision a world where justice and safety are not just ideals but realities. Let this promise inspire you to seek and embody righteousness in your own life, knowing that true leadership brings peace and security.

8) Isaiah 11:1-2

There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots. The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.

Meaning: Ever felt like you needed guidance and strength? This verse reassures you that wisdom and support are always within reach, offering a sense of peace and direction in life's uncertainties.

9) Daniel 9:25-26

Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the command to restore and build Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince, there shall be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublesome times. And after the sixty-two weeks Messiah shall be cut off, but not for Himself; and the people of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end of it shall be with a flood, and till the end of the war desolations are determined.

Meaning: This verse underscores the inevitability of challenges and the promise of redemption. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, there is a greater plan at work, offering hope and resilience.

10) Psalm 22:16-18

For dogs have surrounded Me; The congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me. They pierced My hands and My feet; I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. They divide My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots.

Meaning: We often seek comfort and avoid pain, yet this verse invites us to consider the depth of sacrifice and vulnerability. What if embracing our struggles could lead to a deeper understanding and connection?

10 Bible Verses on Characteristics of The Messiah In The Old Testament

11) Isaiah 42:1

Isaiah 42:1

Behold! My Servant whom I uphold, My Elect One in whom My soul delights! I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.

Meaning: Ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders? This verse reminds us that true strength and justice come from a place of divine support and delight, offering a beacon of hope and fairness to all.

12) Isaiah 61:1-3

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.

Meaning: Ever felt like you needed a fresh start? This verse offers a profound reminder that transformation and renewal are always within reach, bringing hope and joy even in the darkest times.

13) Isaiah 53:3

He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.

Meaning: This verse speaks to the profound loneliness and rejection that can accompany a life of deep purpose. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is a shared experience of sorrow that connects us all.

14) Psalm 2:7

I will declare the decree: The Lord has said to Me, 'You are My Son, Today I have begotten You.'

Meaning: Embrace the idea that you are chosen and valued. Let this truth empower you to face challenges with confidence, knowing you have a unique purpose.

15) Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Meaning: In moments of uncertainty, this verse offers a gentle reminder that there is a source of unwavering peace and guidance always available to us.

16) Isaiah 11:3-4

His delight is in the fear of the Lord, and He shall not judge by the sight of His eyes, nor decide by the hearing of His ears; but with righteousness He shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; He shall strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He shall slay the wicked.

Meaning: The beauty of this verse lies in its promise of true justice and fairness, offering a vision of a world where righteousness prevails and the meek are uplifted.

17) Zechariah 6:12

Then speak to him, saying, 'Thus says the Lord of hosts, saying: "Behold, the Man whose name is the BRANCH! From His place He shall branch out, and He shall build the temple of the Lord;

Meaning: Ever felt like you're stuck in a rut, unsure of how to move forward? This verse reassures us that growth and renewal are always possible, even from the most unexpected places.

18) Psalm 110:4

The Lord has sworn and will not relent, "You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek."

Meaning: In the midst of life's uncertainties, take comfort in knowing that divine promises are unchanging and eternal, offering a steadfast anchor for your soul.

19) Isaiah 49:6

Indeed He says, 'It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles, that You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth.'

Meaning: Take a moment to consider the vastness of this promise. It reminds us that our purpose and impact can extend far beyond our immediate surroundings, offering hope and renewal to the world.

20) Isaiah 50:6

I gave My back to those who struck Me, and My cheeks to those who plucked out the beard; I did not hide My face from shame and spitting.

Meaning: This verse speaks to the profound courage and resilience in the face of suffering. It reminds us that enduring hardship with grace can lead to a deeper strength and understanding.

10 Bible Verses on The Role of The Messiah In The Old Testament

21) Isaiah 53:4-6

Isaiah 53:4-6

Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, remember that you are not alone in your struggles. This verse offers a powerful reminder that there is a source of strength and healing available to you, even in the darkest times.

22) Luke 4:18-19 (referencing Isaiah)

The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.

Meaning: Sometimes, we need a reminder that we are never alone in our struggles. This verse gently nudges us to remember the boundless love and healing available to us.

23) Isaiah 61:1

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're stuck in a rut? This verse reassures us that growth and renewal are always possible, even from the most unexpected places.

24) Jeremiah 31:31-34

Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah—not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more.

Meaning: God's promises are unwavering and timeless. This verse reassures us that His love and forgiveness are always within reach, offering a profound sense of peace and belonging.

25) Isaiah 9:7

Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Meaning: Ever wondered what true, lasting peace looks like? Let this verse inspire you to seek out and cultivate moments of justice and stability in your own life, knowing that a greater plan is always at work.

26) Daniel 7:13-14

I was watching in the night visions, and behold, One like the Son of Man, coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, and they brought Him near before Him. Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom the one which shall not be destroyed.

Meaning: Feel the unwavering assurance in these words. God's promises are a rock-solid foundation, offering you a sense of peace and certainty that transcends all circumstances.

27) Isaiah 53:10

Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise Him; He has put Him to grief. When You make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in His hand.

Meaning: In ancient times, sacrifices were a common way to seek favor or forgiveness. This verse flips the script, showing that even in suffering, there is a divine purpose at work, offering a profound sense of hope and renewal.

28) Psalm 72:1-2

Give the king Your judgments, O God, and Your righteousness to the king’s Son. He will judge Your people with righteousness, and Your poor with justice.

Meaning: When life feels chaotic and unfair, this verse offers a vision of true justice and righteousness. It's a reminder that even in the midst of turmoil, there is a promise of fairness and compassion for all.

29) Isaiah 2:2-4

Now it shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow to it. Many people shall come and say, “Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, and we shall walk in His paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He shall judge between the nations, and rebuke many people; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.

Meaning: What if you could find a place of ultimate peace and wisdom? Let this verse invite you to seek out and embrace the profound harmony and guidance that is always available to you.

30) Ezekiel 34:23-24

I will establish one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them—My servant David. He shall feed them and be their shepherd. And I, the Lord, will be their God, and My servant David a prince among them; I, the Lord, have spoken.

Meaning: Ever felt lost or alone? This verse reassures you that you are always under divine care and guidance, offering a sense of peace and belonging.

10 Bible Verses on The Coming of The Messiah In The Old Testament

31) Isaiah 7:14

Isaiah 7:14

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.

Meaning: The word "Immanuel" means "God with us." It's like having a friend who shows up just when you need them most, reminding you that you're never truly alone.

32) Micah 5:2

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.

Meaning: In the midst of life's storms, remember that God's promises are unwavering. This verse offers a deep breath of assurance, reminding you that even from the smallest places, greatness and divine love can emerge.

33) Isaiah 9:1-2

Nevertheless the gloom will not be upon her who is distressed, as when at first He lightly esteemed the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward more heavily oppressed her, by the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, in Galilee of the Gentiles. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined.

Meaning: There's a profound hope in knowing that light can break through even the darkest times. While the world often tells us to rely on our own strength, this verse invites us to trust in a greater source of illumination and guidance.

34) Zechariah 14:4

And in that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, which faces Jerusalem on the east. And the Mount of Olives shall be split in two, from east to west, making a very large valley; half of the mountain shall move toward the north and half of it toward the south.

Meaning: Ever felt like your world is splitting apart? This verse reminds you that even in the midst of chaos, there is a powerful presence standing firm, offering strength and stability.

35) Isaiah 60:1-3

Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, And deep darkness the people; But the Lord will arise over you, And His glory will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, And kings to the brightness of your rising.

Meaning: The certainty of this promise is like a beacon of hope, illuminating even the darkest moments. The vivid imagery captures the transformative power of divine light, making it a poetic and uplifting reminder of the beauty that can emerge from within.

36) Malachi 3:1

Behold, I send My messenger, and he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple, even the Messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight. Behold, He is coming, says the Lord of hosts.

Meaning: In every season, whether you're celebrating or struggling, there's a promise of divine presence and preparation. It's a reminder that you're never alone; there's always a path being prepared for you.

37) Isaiah 11:10

And in that day there shall be a Root of Jesse, who shall stand as a banner to the people; for the Gentiles shall seek Him, and His resting place shall be glorious.

Meaning: In a world full of distractions, remember to seek what truly brings peace and fulfillment. Let this verse inspire you to find and follow the source of true rest and hope.

38) Isaiah 40:3

The voice of one crying in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the Lord; Make straight in the desert a highway for our God."

Meaning: There's a profound comfort in knowing that even in the most desolate places, a path is being prepared for you. Feel the warmth of God's presence guiding you through every wilderness.

39) Joel 2:28-32

And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth: Blood and fire and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. For in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there shall be deliverance, as the Lord has said, among the remnant whom the Lord calls.

Meaning: God's promise to pour out His Spirit on all people reveals His boundless love and inclusivity. It's an invitation to experience His presence and power, no matter who you are or where you come from.

40) Isaiah 62:11

Indeed the Lord has proclaimed to the end of the world: "Say to the daughter of Zion, 'Surely your salvation is coming; Behold, His reward is with Him, And His work before Him.'

Meaning: When life feels uncertain, let this verse be a beacon of hope, reminding you that brighter days are ahead. It's a gentle nudge to lift your eyes beyond the present and trust in the promise of something greater.

10 Bible Verses on The Suffering of The Messiah In The Old Testament

41) Isaiah 53:3-5

Isaiah 53:3-5

He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.

Meaning: The depth of love and sacrifice in these words is truly transformative. It reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is a profound source of healing and redemption available to us.

42) Psalm 22:1

My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me? Why are You so far from helping Me, and from the words of My groaning?

Meaning: In moments of deep despair, it's natural to feel abandoned. Yet, this verse reminds us that even in our darkest times, reaching out to God can bring a sense of connection and hope that transcends our immediate pain.

43) Isaiah 53:7-8

He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment, and who will declare His generation? For He was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgressions of My people He was stricken.

Meaning: Even in the face of immense suffering, there's a profound strength and purpose. Trust in the reliability of God's promises, knowing that His word is a steadfast anchor in any storm.

44) Lamentations 3:33

For He does not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men.

Meaning: When you're going through tough times, remember that your struggles are not meant to break you. There's a deeper purpose at work, guiding you toward growth and resilience.

45) Isaiah 53:10-11

Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise Him; He has put Him to grief. When You make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in His hand. He shall see the labor of His soul, and be satisfied. By His knowledge My righteous Servant shall justify many, for He shall bear their iniquities.

Meaning: The enduring truth of this verse invites you to embrace the profound love and sacrifice that brings healing and redemption. Step into this promise and let it transform your heart and life.

46) Zechariah 12:10

And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son, and grieve for Him as one grieves for a firstborn.

Meaning: Faith brings a profound sense of security, knowing that God's grace and presence are unwavering. Feel the comfort of His steadfast love and protection, guiding you through every moment.

47) Psalm 69:21

They also gave me gall for my food, and for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

Meaning: In every situation, God's presence is a comforting reassurance. This verse nudges us to reflect on how we respond to others' needs, encouraging us to act with compassion and empathy rather than indifference or cruelty.

48) Isaiah 50:6

I gave My back to those who struck Me, and My cheeks to those who plucked out the beard; I did not hide My face from shame and spitting.

Meaning: The beauty of resilience shines through in moments of adversity. Embrace the strength and grace that come from standing firm, even when faced with hardship.

49) Isaiah 53:12

Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, and He shall divide the spoil with the strong, because He poured out His soul unto death, and He was numbered with the transgressors, and He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

Meaning: Embrace the profound love and sacrifice that calls for action in your life. Let this truth inspire you to live with compassion and purpose, knowing that true love often requires selflessness and courage.

50) Psalm 88:3-5

For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to the grave. I am counted with those who go down to the pit; I am like a man who has no strength, adrift among the dead, like the slain who lie in the grave, whom You remember no more, and who are cut off from Your hand.

Meaning: When you feel overwhelmed and forgotten, remember that even in the darkest moments, there is a deeper connection and understanding waiting to be discovered.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About The Messiah In The Old Testament

Applying the Bible verses about the Messiah in the Old Testament to your daily life can bring a sense of purpose and peace. These teachings offer practical wisdom and guidance that can transform your everyday experiences.

  • Start your day with a prayer: Reflect on verses like Isaiah 9:6-7 to seek wisdom and peace for the day ahead.
  • Practice kindness: Use the message of Isaiah 61:1-3 to inspire acts of compassion and support for those around you.
  • Seek justice: Let verses like Micah 5:2 motivate you to stand up for fairness in your community and workplace.
  • Embrace hope: When facing challenges, remember Isaiah 53:3-5 and find strength in the promise of healing and redemption.
  • Be a light: Follow the example of Isaiah 60:1-3 by spreading positivity and hope in your interactions with others.

Remember, God is always with you, guiding and supporting you through every moment. Let these verses inspire you to live with faith and purpose, knowing that you are part of a greater plan.

For more prayers and Bible verses, visit PrayersFor or try our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.

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