One of the most compelling evidences for the divine inspiration of Scripture is the remarkable thread of prophecy woven through the Old Testament and fulfilled in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Scripture Parallels includes 28 major prophetic parallels — here is a guide to each one.
Birth and Early Life
Born of a Virgin — Isaiah 7:14 foretold that a virgin would conceive and bear a son called Immanuel. Matthew 1:22-23 and Luke 1:30-35 record the fulfillment through Mary.
Born in Bethlehem — Micah 5:2 identified Bethlehem as the birthplace of the coming ruler. Matthew 2:1-6 and Luke 2:4-7 confirm Jesus was born there.
Out of Egypt — Hosea 11:1 declared “Out of Egypt I called my son.” Matthew 2:14-15 records the holy family’s flight to Egypt and return.
Massacre of the Innocents — Jeremiah 31:15 spoke of Rachel weeping for her children. Matthew 2:16-18 connects this to Herod’s slaughter of Bethlehem’s infants.
Ministry
The Forerunner — Isaiah 40:3-5 and Malachi 3:1 promised a messenger to prepare the way. All four Gospels identify John the Baptist as this forerunner.
Ministry in Galilee — Isaiah 9:1-2 prophesied a great light in the region of Galilee. Matthew 4:13-16 notes Jesus’ ministry there as fulfillment.
A Light to the Gentiles — Isaiah 42:1-7 described the Servant who would be a light to the nations. Matthew 12:15-21 and Luke 2:30-32 apply this to Jesus.
Teaching in Parables — Psalm 78:2 said wisdom would come in parables. Matthew 13:34-35 quotes this as fulfilled in Jesus’ teaching method.
Passion and Crucifixion
Triumphal Entry — Zechariah 9:9 described the king riding on a donkey. Matthew 21:1-5 and John 12:14-16 record the fulfillment on Palm Sunday.
Betrayed by a Friend — Psalm 41:9 spoke of betrayal by a close companion. John 13:18-19 and Matthew 26:20-25 connect this to Judas.
Thirty Pieces of Silver — Zechariah 11:12-13 named the price of betrayal. Matthew 27:3-10 records the exact amount paid to Judas.
Silent Before His Accusers — Isaiah 53:7 described the Servant who would not open his mouth. Matthew 27:12-14 and Mark 15:4-5 note Jesus’ silence at trial.
Crucified with Transgressors — Isaiah 53:12 foretold being numbered with transgressors. Mark 15:27-28 and Luke 23:32-33 record two criminals crucified alongside Jesus.
Garments Divided, Lots Cast — Psalm 22:18 described the dividing of garments by lot. All four Gospels record the Roman soldiers doing exactly this.
Cry of Desolation — Psalm 22:1 begins “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” — the very words Jesus spoke from the cross (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34).
No Bones Broken — Psalm 34:20 and Exodus 12:46 (the Passover lamb) stated that no bones would be broken. John 19:33-36 records that Jesus’ legs were not broken.
His Side Pierced — Zechariah 12:10 prophesied “they shall look on him whom they have pierced.” John 19:34-37 records the spear thrust and cites this prophecy.
Buried with the Rich — Isaiah 53:9 said the Servant would be with a rich man in death. Matthew 27:57-60 records Joseph of Arimathea’s tomb.
Resurrection and Beyond
The Resurrection Foretold — Psalm 16:8-11 declared that God would not abandon His Holy One to the grave. Peter quotes this in Acts 2:25-32 as proof of the resurrection.
The New Covenant — Jeremiah 31:31-34 promised a new covenant written on hearts. Jesus inaugurated this at the Last Supper (Luke 22:20), and Hebrews 8:8-13 expounds on its fulfillment.
Explore These Prophecies
Each of these prophetic parallels can be studied in depth using Scripture Parallels. Visit our OT Prophecy and Fulfillment section to read the original prophecy alongside its New Testament fulfillment, side by side, in your preferred translation.