Sisters of Grace

Hail, Hail Lion of Judah

In the Bible Jesus is portrayed as the perfect lamb, that was slain for our sins. However, we often forget that he is also referred to as the Lion of Judah!

These two dual natures, don’t have much in common, there is nothing fierce about a lamb. They are gentle, helpless, and made to follow; rather than lead. A lamb is in fact a baby not even a full grown sheep, and both are considered quite vulnerable. So why is Jesus considered a lamb? His nature was gentle, in the Bible we see that he did not try and defend himself against his attackers.

Jesus the one that gave his life away for our sins and we worship him as the lamb. “Worthy is the lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelations 5:12 ESV). In biblical times, lambs were offered as a sacrifice for atonement of sins and that’s just another beautiful imagery of Jesus taking our sins upon himself. The ironic thing is that Jesus calls us sheep, and he is also referred to as the Great Shepherd, the one who leads his sheep. After he finished his work on the cross he received his glory as the not only the lamb but the LION that has all power!

The transformation of Jesus, to his glory being revealed that he is one with God the Father. The son of God laid down his life and rose with all authority and power! The Lion of Judah references his strength, power, dominion and his royal lineage. Judah was one of the twelves sons of Jacob, a descendant of Jesus. This name is a reminder of another prophecy fulfilled, Jesus was prophesied to come through the lineage of King David.

The lion shows the boldness we can have through Jesus. He is our great and fierce leader, yet he reminds us that we can do great things through his power. This great and powerful God, came down as a servant just for us. He humbled himself as the lamb while all along held the power of a great lion. One worship song that I love says: “What kind of self control is this, when you had angels at your fingertips?” Jesus could have summoned his angels instead of accept the fate of death on a cross. He stayed in what was uncomfortable, unimaginable and completely unfair for our good!

The next time you need comfort keep these beautiful images of a savior that is both gentle, loving, and also powerful, bold, and incredibly fierce! He can be all that we need, he will weep with you and then defend you in battle! The embodiment of truth! This kind of love we get to experience each day, all we have to do is accept what has been given to us. The Lion and Lamb, who will walk alongside you in whatever capacity is necessary for the occasion! Hail! Hail! Lion of Judah! The King has overcome, and you can too! Be blessed!