Revelation 5:5–6 (ESV)
“Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah… a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain…”
DEVOTIONAL
There is no greater paradox in all of Scripture—no richer mystery—than the revelation of Jesus Christ as both the Lion and the Lamb. In this vision given to the apostle John, heaven opens, and all creation waits in suspense. A scroll is sealed, and none in heaven or on earth is found worthy to open it. John begins to weep, but then comes the word of hope: “Weep no more. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah… He has conquered.”
Yet when John turns to see this mighty Lion, what he beholds is startling: a Lamb, standing, as though it had been slain.
Here is the wonder of our Redeemer. He is the Lion—strong, royal, victorious. He is the fulfillment of the ancient promise made to Judah, the King who rules with power and justice. But He is also the Lamb—meek, gentle, willing to be led to the slaughter for our sins. His victory comes not by crushing His enemies but by laying down His life. He conquered by being pierced. He reigns because He was slain.
In the Lamb, we see the cost of our redemption. In the Lion, we see the power of our salvation. Christ is both. And He is worthy.
This vision should humble us and stir our hearts to worship. The One who sits at the center of the throne bears scars for our sin. His victory was not for Himself but for His people—for the unworthy, for the lost, for those who could never open the scroll of history or fulfill the plan of God. He alone could do it, and He did.
Today, whatever your burdens, fears, or failures, look again to Jesus. Behold Him—not just as the Lamb who died but as the Lion who reigns. He knows your sorrow, and He holds all authority in His nail-pierced hands.
Prayer:
O Lord Jesus Christ,
You are the Lion of Judah—mighty in battle, sovereign over all. You are the Lamb of God—meek and lowly, slain for sinners like me. I praise You for the mystery of Your person, the wonder of Your love, and the power of Your cross.
Forgive me when I forget who You are. Forgive me when I look for strength in myself instead of in Your victory. Fix my eyes on You, the Lamb who was slain, yet now lives and reigns forever.
May my heart bow in worship. May my life reflect Your glory. And may Your name be exalted above all others.
Come quickly, Lord Jesus.
Amen.