Snakes and serpents in the Scriptures

By CP StaffSunday, July 02, 2023

While Scripture is full of references to all types of animals and even refers to the Messiah as the Lamb of God and the Lion of Judah, the shadow of snakes looms large over both the Old and New Testaments.

The word for “serpent” or “snake” is used 31 times in the Old Testament and 14 times in the New Testament, and snakes often play a key role in some of the Bible’s most memorable passages.

In fact, some Christian denominations have even taken Jesus’ prediction of His followers picking up snakes with their hands literally — oftentimes with disastrous results.

Let’s take a look at some of the Bible’s more famous snake references.

Was this article helpful?

Become a CP Insider.
Help keep The Christian Post free for everyone.

The truth has a cost, and Insiders help carry it.
A dollar from an Insider comes with no strings attached. It keeps our reporters on the story, keeps our journalism open to everyone, and keeps every editorial decision in the newsroom, where it belongs.

Become a CP Insider and choose the amount you want to pay. You can change, pause or cancel anytime. As a thank-you, you’ll get: