The imagery of the lion and the lamb is a powerful symbol of Jesus’ role as both King and Savior. Today, we’ll reflect on how the Bible uses this picture to teach us about God’s justice and mercy.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Public Education
What Does The Bible Say About The Lion And The Lamb
Isaiah 11:6
“The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them.”
Isaiah prophesies about a future where all enmity and hostility will cease, and even the animal kingdom will live in peace and harmony. The imagery of the lion and the lamb coexisting speaks to the complete transformation that will take place when God’s kingdom is established.
This verse reminds us of the power of divine authority and the transformative work of God. It reassures us that one day, violence and aggression will be replaced by peace and unity, under the loving control of God.
Isaiah 65:25
“The wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox, and dust will be the serpent’s food. They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain,” says the LORD.”
Isaiah envisions a time when even the predator and prey will coexist in harmony and experience a complete change in their nature. The lion eating straw like the ox signifies a radical transformation where violence and aggression are replaced by gentleness and peace.
This verse points to the restoration of God’s creation and the ultimate triumph of His divine plan. It gives us hope that God’s kingdom will bring an end to suffering and usher in a new era of peace and harmony.
Genesis 49:9
“Judah is a lion’s cub; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He stooped down; he crouched as a lion and as a lioness; who dares rouse him?”
In Jacob’s blessing to his son Judah, he compares him to a lion, highlighting his strength, power, and leadership qualities. This lion metaphor signifies the prominence and authority that the tribe of Judah would have among the twelve tribes of Israel.
This verse symbolizes the coming of the Messiah, who would be from the lineage of Judah. Jesus, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, fulfills this prophecy by establishing His eternal kingdom and leading His people with strength and righteousness.
Proverbs 30:30
“A lion, mighty among beasts, who retreats before nothing.”
This proverb describes the lion as a powerful and fearless creature that does not back down from any challenge. It highlights the lion’s bravery and unwavering determination.
This verse serves as a metaphorical lesson for believers, encouraging them to be courageous and unyielding in their faith. Just as the lion does not retreat, we are called to stand firm in the face of adversity and trust in the strength of the Lord.
Psalm 91:13
“You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.”
This psalm reassures believers of God’s protection and deliverance from various dangers and enemies. The verses preceding this one describe God’s faithfulness in guarding and rescuing those who trust in Him.
The imagery of treading and trampling on lions and serpents symbolizes victory over spiritual forces of darkness. It emphasizes that God’s power is greater than any threat or danger we may face, providing us with comfort and assurance in His strength.
Numbers 23:24
“The people rise like a lioness; they rouse themselves like a lion that does not rest till it devours its prey and drinks the blood of its victims.”
In this prophetic blessing for Israel, Balaam compares the nation to a lion that cannot be easily subdued. It portrays their strength, determination, and unwavering pursuit of their goals.
This verse depicts the resolute nature of God’s chosen people and their perseverance in accomplishing what God has set before them. It reminds us to be steadfast in fulfilling God’s purpose and relying on His strength for success.
Job 38:39-40
“Do you hunt the prey for the lioness and satisfy the hunger of the lions when they crouch in their dens or lie in wait in a thicket? Who provides food for the raven when its young cry out to God and wander about for lack of food?”
In this passage, God questions Job’s understanding of His providence and care for all creatures. He draws attention to His role as the provider of sustenance for the lioness, lions, and even the ravens.
This verse reminds us of God’s faithfulness in meeting the needs of His creation. It reassures us that just as God provides for the animals, He will faithfully provide for His children as well.
Proverbs 26:13
“The sluggard says, ‘There’s a lion in the road, a fierce lion roaming the streets!'”
This proverb humorously depicts a lazy person making excuses for not taking action by imagining a lion blocking their path. It satirizes the ridiculousness of their excuses and highlights their lack of motivation.
This verse serves as a caution against laziness and the tendency to make excuses instead of fulfilling responsibilities. It encourages us to overcome fear and face challenges head-on with diligence and perseverance.
Amos 3:8
“The lion has roared— who will not fear? The Sovereign LORD has spoken— who can but prophesy?”
Amos uses the roaring of a lion as a metaphor for the voice of God, emphasizing its power and authority. The verse highlights the significance and impact of God’s words and His call to obedience.
This verse speaks to the reverence and awe we should have for God’s voice. It reminds us that when God speaks, we should listen and respond, recognizing His sovereignty and heeding His instructions.
Psalm 34:10
“The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.”
This psalm expresses confidence in God’s provision and care for those who trust in Him. It acknowledges that even strong and mighty creatures like lions may experience lack, but for those who seek the Lord, every good thing is provided.
This verse encourages believers to place their trust in God rather than relying on worldly possessions or wealth. It reminds us that God’s provision goes beyond material needs and encompasses all that is good for our lives.
Psalm 7:2
“So that my soul may sing praise to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.”
This psalm, written by David, expresses his desire to continually praise and give thanks to God for His deliverance. It acknowledges God’s faithful justice and protection.
This verse serves as a reminder to us to continually offer praise and thanksgiving to God for His provision, guidance, and deliverance in our lives. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a heart of gratitude and worship towards God.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
Peter cautions believers to be vigilant and alert to the schemes of the enemy who seeks to destroy and devour. The metaphor of the devil being a roaring lion emphasizes his deceptive tactics and relentless pursuit.
This verse reminds us of the spiritual battle we are engaged in and the need for constant vigilance and discernment. It encourages us to stand firm against the enemy’s attacks, relying on the strength and protection of God.
Psalm 91:11
“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
This psalm assures believers of God’s divine protection through His angels. It underscores God’s commitment to safeguarding His people in all aspects of their lives.
This verse instills confidence and trust in God’s watchful care. It reminds us that we are never alone, and we can have peace knowing that God’s angels are sent to guard and protect us from harm.
Proverbs 22:13
“The sluggard says, ‘There’s a lion outside! I’ll be killed in the public square!'”
This proverb uses exaggeration to illustrate the excuse-making tendencies of a lazy person. It depicts a sluggard who attributes their reluctance to work to the presence of a lion, thereby avoiding responsibility.
This verse serves as a caution against laziness and making baseless excuses. It urges us to take personal responsibility for our actions and reject the temptation to shift blame onto imaginary obstacles.
Revelation 5:5
“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.'”
In John’s vision in Revelation, he witnesses the Lion of the tribe of Judah, representing Jesus, triumphing over all. This symbolizes Jesus’ victory over sin and death through His sacrifice on the cross.
This verse celebrates the sovereignty and triumph of Jesus as the Messiah. It reminds us of His authority and power to bring about God’s divine plan, assuring us of his redemptive work on our behalf.
Jeremiah 2:30
“In vain I punished your people; they did not respond to correction. Your sword has devoured your prophets like a ravening lion.”
In a message from God, Jeremiah confronts the rebellious people of Israel, comparing their refusal to heed correction to a ravaging lion that devours its prey. It highlights the severe consequences of their disobedience.
This verse serves as a rebuke and warning against rejecting God’s correction and falling into destructive ways. It emphasizes the need for repentance and turning back to God to avoid the consequences of disobedience.
Amos 1:2
“The LORD roars from Zion and thunders from Jerusalem; the pastures of the shepherds dry up, and the top of Carmel withers.”
Amos uses the imagery of a roaring lion to depict the powerful voice of the Lord as He pronounces judgment. The drying of pastures and withering of the land signify the devastation that results from God’s righteous anger.
This verse reminds us of the justice and power of God’s judgment. It serves as a call to repentance and a warning to the nations that defy His commands.
Isaiah 31:4
“This is what the LORD says to me: ‘As a lion growls, a great lion over its prey— and though a whole band of shepherds is called together against it, it is not frightened by their shouts or disturbed by their clamor— so the LORD Almighty will come down to do battle on Mount Zion and on its heights.'”
In this prophetic message, Isaiah compares the fierce protection of a lion over its prey to God’s determination to defend His people against their enemies. The verse assures that God’s power and authority are unmatched.
This verse instills confidence and trust in God’s ability to deliver and protect His people. It reminds us that nothing can stand against God, and He will fight for us with unwavering strength and resolve.
Isaiah 35:9
“No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there.”
In describing the future restoration and renewal of God’s people, Isaiah proclaims that dangerous beasts like lions will no longer pose a threat. Instead, it will be a place of safety and joy reserved for the redeemed.
This verse paints a picture of the ultimate victory over evil and the transformation that will take place in God’s kingdom. It reassures believers that in the presence of God, all threats and dangers will be done away with.
Psalm 58:6
“Break the teeth in their mouths, O God; LORD, tear out the fangs of those lions!”
This psalm is a passionate plea to God for justice against the wicked. The imagery of breaking the teeth and tearing out the fangs of lions symbolizes the disabling of their power to harm.
This verse acknowledges that it is God alone who can deal with injustice and oppression. It encourages believers to cry out to God for deliverance, trusting in His power to bring about justice.
Psalm 5:8
“Lead me, LORD, in your righteousness because of my enemies— make your way straight before me.”
This psalm expresses the psalmist’s plea for God’s guidance and protection in the face of enemies. It acknowledges God’s righteousness and the need to walk according to His ways.
This verse serves as a prayer for God’s direction and a desire to follow His path even amidst challenges. It reminds believers of the necessity to seek God’s guidance and trust in His righteousness in all circumstances.
Nahum 2:12
“The lion killed enough for his cubs and strangled the prey for his mate, filling his lairs with the kill and his dens with the prey.”
Nahum uses the metaphor of a lion hunting and providing for its cubs and mate to describe the conquering of Nineveh by Babylon. It portrays the abundance and strength of the attacker.
This verse highlights the consequences of wickedness and the just judgment that falls upon those who oppress others. It reminds us that God’s justice will prevail and that the oppressor will eventually face the consequences of their actions.