Easter is the cornerstone of the Christian faith—a celebration of Jesus Christ’s victory over death through His crucifixion and resurrection. The event symbolizes the fulfillment of God’s promises and offers hope of eternal life to all who believe. As we reflect on this sacred time, reading and meditating on Scripture is one of the best ways to reconnect with the truth and power of the resurrection.
In this article, we will explore 20 Easter Bible verses from the New International Version (NIV), arranged to reflect key moments in the Easter story—from prophecy to resurrection and beyond. These verses are ideal for personal reflection, family devotionals, church services, or sharing on social media.
The Prophecies of the Messiah’s Suffering and Resurrection
1. Isaiah 53:5
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”
This verse foretells the suffering of Christ centuries before it happened. It emphasizes that Jesus’ wounds were not in vain—they were for our healing, peace, and redemption.
2. Psalm 22:16-18
“Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet. All my bones are on display; people stare and gloat over me. They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.”
This striking prophecy describes in vivid detail the crucifixion, pointing to the suffering of Jesus in fulfillment of Scripture. The Psalm was written long before crucifixion was even practiced.
The Passion of Christ: His Sacrifice for Us
3. Matthew 26:28
“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
During the Last Supper, Jesus introduces a new covenant—His blood, which brings forgiveness. This verse reminds us of the significance of His sacrifice.
4. Luke 23:33-34
“When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.”
Even in His suffering, Jesus extended forgiveness. His love and mercy shine even from the cross.
5. John 19:30
“When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”
These final words of Jesus signify the completion of His mission. He fulfilled every prophecy and paid the price for sin in full.
The Burial and the Silence of Saturday
6. Matthew 27:59-60
“Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.”
This quiet moment between crucifixion and resurrection reminds us that even when it seems like all hope is lost, God is still working behind the scenes.
The Resurrection: Victory Over Death
7. Matthew 28:5-6
“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.'”
These words changed history. The empty tomb is proof that Jesus conquered death.
8. Luke 24:6-7
“He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’”
Jesus’ resurrection was no accident. It was foretold by Him and happened just as He said.
9. Mark 16:6
“‘Don’t be alarmed,’ he said. ‘You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him.’”
Mark’s version of the resurrection narrative is brief and powerful—just the way it happened: Jesus was dead, and now He is alive.
The Appearances: Jesus Reveals Himself
10. John 20:19
“On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!'”
Even when we are afraid and hiding, Jesus comes to bring us peace. The risen Christ appears not with condemnation but with comfort.
11. Luke 24:31-32
“Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?'”
The road to Emmaus story reminds us that Jesus often walks with us long before we recognize Him.
The Impact of the Resurrection
12. Romans 6:9
“For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him.”
Christ’s resurrection wasn’t temporary—it was eternal. Death has been defeated once and for all.
13. 1 Corinthians 15:20-22
“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
This verse connects the dots between Adam’s sin and Christ’s victory, promising life to all who believe.
14. Colossians 3:1
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.”
The resurrection not only changed eternity—it changes our perspective. We are called to live with eyes fixed on heaven.
The Power of Easter in the Life of Believers
15. Philippians 3:10-11
“I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.”
Easter isn’t just an event—it’s a life-changing power. This verse captures the heart of a believer’s desire to live like Christ.
16. Ephesians 1:19-20
“That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms.”
The same power that raised Jesus lives in us today. What a promise!
The Mission Continues: Our Response to the Resurrection
17. Matthew 28:18-20
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations… And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'”
The Great Commission is Jesus’ post-resurrection call to all believers. It reminds us that Easter is a launching pad for mission.
18. Acts 4:33
“With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all.”
The early church was fueled by the resurrection, and so should we be.
The Eternal Hope We Have Because of Easter
19. 1 Thessalonians 4:14
“For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.”
This verse offers hope for the future—a promise of eternal life with Christ for all who believe.
20. Revelation 1:17-18
“Then he placed his right hand on me and said: ‘Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.'”
Jesus holds the keys. He conquered the grave and reigns forever. This is the glorious conclusion of the Easter story.
Conclusion
Easter is more than just a holiday; it’s the foundation of our faith. Through these 20 Bible verses from the NIV, we are reminded that Jesus’ journey from the cross to the empty tomb is the ultimate demonstration of God’s love, justice, and power.
His resurrection validates every promise, renews every heart, and offers eternal life to all who believe. Whether you’re preparing a sermon, writing an Easter card, or sharing the good news on social media, let these Scriptures anchor your celebration of the risen Christ.
He is risen. He is risen indeed!
You Might Be Interested In:
