As Christians around the world prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ — the foundation of our faith and the greatest moment in human history — the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., is offering a deeply reverent and powerful tribute to the events of the Passion. Its exhibit, Descent from the Cross, is now open through May 5 and provides visitors with a profound opportunity to reflect on the sacrifice and love of our Savior.
The exhibit centers on the moment when Jesus’ lifeless body was removed from the cross — a powerful scene filled with grief, reverence, and anticipation of the resurrection to come. This pivotal event, though only briefly described in the Bible, has inspired countless generations of artists to interpret it through their own faith and cultural lens.
The collection features 21 breathtaking works spanning five centuries, including pieces by Albrecht Dürer, Salvador Dalí, and Sadao Watanabe. Each piece captures not only the emotional and spiritual weight of Christ’s crucifixion but also the universal longing for redemption and truth. These sacred depictions remind visitors of the courage of figures like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who risked their own safety to honor the Son of God.
“In this season of deep reflection and gratitude, we’re honored to showcase this sacred art from around the world,” said Dr. Bobby Duke, the museum’s chief curatorial officer. “This exhibit encourages prayerful contemplation of Christ’s suffering and ultimate victory over sin and death.”
In addition to the art collection, the museum is offering several Christ-centered events throughout Holy Week and Easter. A “Stations of the Cross” pilgrimage allows visitors to walk through 14 bronze sculptures portraying Jesus’ final hours, echoing the tradition of the Via Dolorosa and inviting deeper meditation on the path to Calvary.
On April 15, the museum will screen The First Hymn, a documentary that traces the origins of early Christian worship through song, featuring performances by artists like Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding. Later that week, singer-songwriter Andrew Peterson will bring to life the story of redemption with music from his Resurrection Letters album.
Garrett Hinton, the museum’s chief revenue officer, summed it up well: “Easter is a time of hope and renewal. Through sacred art, music, and Scripture, we welcome all who wish to remember what this season truly represents.”
In a world that increasingly tries to erase or commercialize the true meaning of Easter, the Museum of the Bible holds its commitment to Christ-centered truth and stands as a bold and faithful witness.
