In Scripture, Jesus is beautifully depicted as the Lion of Judah. Let’s explore this powerful imagery:
Revelation 5:5 declares Jesus to be the Lion of Judah: “Then one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals”.
–This title portrays Christ as the embodiment of courage, authority, and power.
In Genesis 49, Jacob prophetically speaks about his sons’ destinies. When he addresses his son Judah, he declares: “Judah, your brothers will praise you; your hand will be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons will bow down to you. You are a lion’s cub, Judah; you return from the prey, my son. Like a lion he crouches and lies down, like a lioness—who dares to rouse him? The sceptre will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his”.
-These words point to the conquering, victorious king who would descend from Judah’s lineage.
The Lion of Judah symbolizes Jesus, God in human form, who fulfils the promise and prophecy of God’s Word. While we often think of Jesus as the gentle Lamb, this imagery reminds us of His majestic authority and His ultimate triumph over sin and death.
Jesus embodies both the gentleness of the Lamb (who sacrificed Himself for our sins) and the strength of the Lion (who reigns as the victorious King) . Truly, He is the Lion of Judah, worthy of our worship and awe. Now since Jesus the Son of God, who rules the heavens and the earth is compared to a “lion”, it means there are certain features and leadership traits that a lion has which God wants us to possess in our walk with Him.
The metaphor of a lion is used several times in the Bible to illustrate various qualities. Here are some traits we can desire to see in a “Lion-Christian” based on biblical perspective:
- Courage: Lions are often associated with bravery and courage. In Joshua 1:9, God commands Joshua to be strong and of good courage, indicating the importance of courage in facing life’s challenges.
- Strength: Lions are known for their physical strength. Similarly, Christians are encouraged to be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might (Ephesians 6:10).
- Leadership: Lions are often regarded as the kings of the jungle, symbolizing leadership. In 1 Timothy 3:4-5, leaders in the church are encouraged to rule their own households well, exhibiting qualities of leadership. Also, as Christian parents we are expected by God to model Christ Jesus to our children.
- Protection: Lions are protective of their pride. Similarly, Christians are called to protect and defend the weak and vulnerable (Psalm 82:3-4).
- Boldness: Lions are bold creatures. In Acts 4:13, Peter and John are described as being bold in their proclamation of the Gospel despite facing opposition.
- Fierceness against evil: Lions are fierce hunters, symbolizing the Christian’s readiness to stand against evil forces (1 Peter 5:8).
- Wisdom: Lions exhibit a sense of wisdom in their actions. Similarly, Christians are encouraged to seek wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 4:7).
- Diligence: Lions are diligent hunters, exemplifying the importance of diligence in the Christian walk (Proverbs 10:4).
- Confidence: Lions carry themselves with confidence. Christians are called to approach the throne of grace with confidence, knowing that they will receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16).
- Loyalty: Lions are fiercely loyal to their pride. Christians are called to remain steadfast in their loyalty to God and to one another (1 Corinthians 1:9).
By embodying these traits, Christians through the empowerment of the Holy-Spirit can live as “Lion-Believers,” reflecting the strength, courage, and leadership qualities that are found in Jesus, the lion of the tribe of Judah (Revelations 5:5).
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name“
Prayer: Holy-Spirit, please empower me to become a “lion-believer”, in Jesus Name
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