The lion in the Bible represents strength and power. How is this displayed in the Scriptures? This article expounds on the lion and the Bible.
The Lion and the Bible
We believe that the Scriptures are the Word of God, the inerrant, immutable, and infallible Word of God. On occasion, there is a Scripture that jumps off the page in a way that cannot be shaken.
One such Scripture that has jumped out lately is found in 1 Peter 5:8, which reads, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” We don’t have to look very far to see the application of this Scripture in force. However, far away, it is being enforced even more mightily that being in the Middle East. The devil is having a field day in the Middle East. Thousands have been killed and injured on both sides of the conflict; over two hundred Israelis have been taken as hostages, with it being unknown what their demises may be. Israelis have been raped, tortured, and burned alive, babies beheaded. Innocent citizens of Gaza are suffering from a lack of food, water, and medicine. All of this is at the hands of the terrorist group Hamas—an agent of Satan doing his bidding.
Israel is threatened on two fronts: Gaza and the northern border with Lebanon. Yes, the lion is walking and roaring in the Middle East, Israel in particular.
Israel suffered a surprise attack. With all of its sophisticated equipment and intelligence sources, they were attacked. Hamas had been stealthily planning this attack for two years, unbeknownst to Israel. How could this happen? How did the lion stay so quiet?
Another passage that jumps from its page is Matthew 24:6-8, which quotes Jesus as saying:
6. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
7. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
8. All these are the beginning of sorrows.
Now, the Scripture says, “wars and rumors of wars,” “
and nation against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.” So we have Israel against Palestine, more specifically Hamas, the terrorist group, Russia against Ukraine, China threatening Taiwan, and Afghanistan recently had four earthquakes in one week. Oh yes, the lion is roaring! Jesus said these are the “beginning“ of sorrows, “but the end is not yet.”
These words are to prepare us, the followers of Jesus, for a difficult passage of time before His return. A key phrase in this passage comforts us, which is: “see that ye be not troubled.” As political situations worsen, as wars ravage the world, let us, as Jesus’ disciples and followers, not be afraid that somehow God has lost control or that his promises will not come to fruition. Just as false messiahs and religious deceptions come and go, so do political and natural crises. Even when the world seems to be in chaos, God is in control. Such things must happen as part of God’s divine plan. However, the wars and rumors of wars do not signal the end (the end of the world). The nations at war and the earth’s turmoil, revealed in increased earthquakes and famines, would also not signal the end.
Responding to the Lion
While we must never trivialize suffering, all these troubles must not alarm us Christians. Because Jesus has warned us about them, we know that they must precede the arrival of God’s glorious kingdom.
Also, there is another passage that sheds wisdom we should behoove to follow, which is Ephesians 5:15-17, which reads:
15. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
16. Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
17. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
Walk circumspectly refers to how we live. Our responsibility is to live as children of light (5:8) and to expose darkness. Therefore, we must be very careful how we live. Our lives must please God (5:10), and we must conduct ourselves in the presence of unbelievers so as to shine with Christ and draw others to him. This passage encourages us to live not as unwise but as wise. In other words, we must take our knowledge of Christ and apply it to our everyday lives and be especially aware of our conduct with unbelievers. Paul wrote to the Colossians (Col. 4:5 NIV), “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders.”
The Ephesians passage further instructs us to “redeem the time.”
In other words, make the most of every opportunity. We must carefully use our time, making use of opportunities for doing good. This advocates that we should not allow ourselves to be controlled by our circumstances; instead, we should use time as the valuable commodity or resource it is. We must use every opportunity to help draw people from darkness to light. Because the days are evil and unbelievers desperately need help as time is moving swiftly.
We must be wise to what the Lord’s will is and apply it.
Returning to the opening Scripture, 1 Peter 5:8, Peter warned Christians to be alert for Satan, especially in times of suffering and persecution, for he walks up and down the earth seeking whom he or his demons can attack and defeat. We see this in the opening passages of Job (Job 1:7). This is spiritual warfare.
When we Christians feel alone, weak, helpless, and cut off from other Christians, we can become so focused on our troubles that we forget to watch for danger. In those times, we are especially vulnerable to Satan’s attacks, which come in various forms, often at a person’s weakest spot — such as during temptation, fear, loneliness, worry, depression, and persecution. Therefore, Peter and Paul also urged the believers always to be alert for Satan’s tricks and attacks.
The lion roars mightily in the Middle East. But what we must be aware of is that just as the lion has seeked and roared in the Middle East, just as he sneak attacked Israel, he can do the same in the United States of America and any country in the world.
So we must be first “sober,” which means serious, clearheaded, and self-controlled. And we must be “vigilant,” which means watchful, alert, cautious, and aware. We must be sober and vigilant against what may befall us.
Bear in mind that lions attack sick, young, or straggling animals; they choose victims who are alone or not alert. Peter warns us to watch out for Satan when we are suffering or being persecuted. If you are feeling alone, weak, helpless, and cut off from other believers, or if you are so focused on your troubles that you forget to watch for danger, those are the times when you are especially vulnerable to Satan’s attacks. So, how do we mitigate our vulnerability?
One of the tools to help detect vulnerability is to heed the acronym H–A–L–T. We must not allow ourselves to get excessively:
H-hungry 
A-angry
L-lonely
T- tired
When these conditions begin to increase—halt and take action to remedy them.
During times of suffering, seek other Christians for support. Keep your eyes on Christ, and then, as James says, “resist the devil, And he will flee from you” (James 4:7).
The last but not least, Scripture that jumps off the page these days is Eph. 6:13, which reads:
13. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Daily, we must put on, as the Scripture reads, “the whole armour of God.”
So, what is the whole armor of God? It consists of righteousness, the gospel, our faith, our salvation, and the sword, which is the Word of God.
Therefore, forget American Express! It’s the WHOLE armor of God we need—don’t leave home without it!
Another Lion
In closing, above all, the most important thing to remember is that there is another lion stronger than the devil. This lion will roar louder than the devil: the lion of Judah. Jesus is the lion of Judah. Prov 30:30 reads, “A lion which is strongest among beasts, and turneth not away for any;”
The lion is the strongest of the animals and doesn’t turn away from anything. Jesus is the Lion that hasn’t turned away from anything. Jesus has overcome temptation, sin, pain and suffering, fear, death, and Satan, the devil himself.
For a quick background, Jacob had twelve sons who eventually headed the twelve tribes of Israel. Judah was the fourth of these sons by his wife, Leah. Judah was the most prominent and most substantial of the twelve tribes and the tribe from which Jesus, the Savior of the world, was born.Judah was the strongest of the twelve tribes and the tribe from which Jesus was born. When Jacob blessed his sons, he said to Judah, his fourth son in Genesis 49:8-10
8 “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.
9 You are a lion’s cub, O Judah; you return from the prey, my son. Like a lion he crouches and lies down, like a lioness — who dares to rouse him?
10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations is his. NIV
“The Septer,” the kingship, the throne “will not depart from Judah.” Judah produced kings. This prophetic blessing was fulfilled with the birth of Christ. Jesus was a descendant of Judah, as was King David and King Solomon.
When Gabriel announced Christ’s birth to Mary, he said in Luke 1:31-33
31. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
32. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:
33. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
In John’s prophetic vision of heaven, the perpetuity of Jesus’ kingdom is confirmed. In Rev 5:5, John wrote:
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.” NIV
There is no end to Jesus’ kingdom. Jesus is the triumphant, conquering king descended from Judah’s lineage. He is indeed the lion of Judah!
Jesus made the one-time sacrifice that will destroy all enemies. Look at what it reads in Heb. 10:12-13
12. But this man, [Jesus] after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;
13. From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
In the end, Jesus will destroy all his enemies, including Satan, the devil. Satan can roar, but not as loud as Jesus! Satan is mighty, but the Lord is almighty!
And when Jesus returns and roars, the devil’s roar will be a measly whimper.
So remember what Jesus said regarding His return in Luke 21:28, “And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.”
Therefore, we must never forget that we have hope, not in ourselves or our circumstances but in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We only need to be sober and vigilant, carrying the whole armor of God, living according to His will, and waiting for His return.
Therefore, in the meantime, let us heed the Scripture 1 Peter 5:8: “Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.
Amen
Questions, comments, concerns, and witnessing of the lion may be left below.
Blessings!
Amen, I say to you. Yes like todays world, the innocent are being abused and lied to, and the lion chose the victims that have nowhere to go. People only turn to God in times of desperation which is wrong. We should always ask God every day for his grace, love, and protection not only in times of trouble but also in times of joy and gratitude. God is faithful and merciful, and He cares for His children in every situation.
Yes, for sure, Arlen, we must commune with God daily to keep our relationship with Him strong and ensure our protection against the lion.
Thanks for commenting!
Hi Nathaniel,I just read your post “The Lion and the Bible” on The Christian Advocate. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the symbolic meaning of lions in the Bible, especially in relation to strength, power, and spiritual warfare. Your analysis of various biblical passages, tying them to current global events, provides a contemporary perspective on timeless themes. However, I’m curious about how you would suggest applying these lessons in a more personal, day-to-day context. How can individuals harness the ‘lion-like’ strength and vigilance in their personal lives?Thank you for your work and sharingBest regards,Makhsud
Greetings, Makhsud – One of the things I would suggest one do to build up strength is to concentrate on the Word of God. In particular, the passage in Ephesians 6:10-18 which in verse 10 begins, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. The rest of the passage elaborates on the situation and the armor to overcome it.
Concentrating and applying this passage will strengthen us in the battle against the lion, the devil.
Thanks for commenting!
Wow, this article about the lion’s significance in the Bible is fascinating! It’s intriguing to see how the lion is not only a symbol of strength and majesty but also represents various aspects of both God and Jesus. The dual nature of the lion as both a fearsome creature and a symbol of divine authority speaks volumes about the multifaceted nature of biblical symbolism. It’s interesting to note how the lion is depicted differently in various contexts within the Bible. This got me thinking: How do these diverse representations of the lion in the Bible influence the way we perceive its symbolism in contemporary Christian art and literature? Are there any specific modern artworks or literary works that have been notably influenced by these biblical depictions of the lion?
Hi Corey – I do not personally know of any specific modern artworks. However, if you Google “Christian art examples” or “Christian Art and Literature,” some pretty interesting examples come up, including ones of the Lion.
I’m glad you enjoyed the article, and thanks for commenting!
Very well written and thought out article. This is definitely a different perspective for me. But, it is one that I find intriguing. I’ve always seen myself as a lion. Not necessarily in a religious manner, but more in a leader role. People tend to jump on my wagon and look to me for answers. Maybe one day I will be called to use this to serve Jesus himself.
Sounds like you are a born leader, Conner. I am sure you will do much justice for Jesus and His Kingdom!
Thanks for commenting!
Amen, Nathaniel! Thank you for this post and I sure hope more people see it. I’m very glad you mentioned the lion of Judah as that is what my mind was going towards while reading. Thank you also for sharing the acronym HALT. I hadn’t thought of things that way and it is very helpful!These are troubling times indeed and it is very easy, I find, to become discouraged. However, it is in those times of discouragement that our faith is often strengthened. I’m also glad you touched on the armor of God. This was one of the first things in the Bible that I read about!Something that always stands out in my mind (I can’t remember where I heard it from); there was a man getting on a plane who was carrying a bible. He sat down in an aisle across from another man who was reading his bible. The man who was already sitting noticed the other man with his bible and leaned over to him and said:…I can see you brought your sword!Blessings!
Yes, for sure, Chase, we must put on our armor daily, especially the Sword!
Thanks for commenting!
Hi Nathaniel, thanks for your interesting article about the lion. I fully understand. Your interpretation(s) is/are interesting. I respect your point of view.
Although I don’t claim to be religious or Christian, I am fairly well versed about some, not all, or even most, of the teachings of the bible. However, the spiritual program I am part of derives much of its ideology from the bible. I believe all faiths have their place, whether or not I agree with them or understand them.
What’s happening in Palestine/Israel is disgusting! Yes, the lion is roaring loudly. However, I can only wonder if the lion is roaring so loud, that maybe it’s to keep attention from the lion trainer, who is most likely profiting from the lion’s roar.
That’s what I think many people miss, not just in the Middle East, but in general, around the world, including here in the US.
It’s obvious to me you take your faith seriously and are a committed Christian.
Keep up the good work.
Bob
Greetings, Bob. You made a good point regarding the lion trainer. One of his goals is to establish his nonexistence so that God gets the blame. He’s crafty that way.
Thanks for commenting!
Hi Nathaniel, A thought-provoking article. The analogy of the lion when it comes to strength and resilience, as well as a symbol in religious contexts is indeed a theme that runs pretty deep. Outside of biblical excerpts, I think the Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis were my first exposure to this, which I read as a child. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for commenting, Ben.
this article about the lion’s significance in the Bible is quite interesting. It’s fascinating to see how the lion is a symbol of strength and also represents various aspects of both God and Jesus.The dual nature of the lion as both a fearsome creature and a symbol shows a lot about biblical symbolism. It’s interesting to note how the lion is depicted differently in various contexts within the Bible.
Yes, indeed, Markis, the Bible has plenty of symbolism. It keeps the texts interesting. The various depictions of the lion illustrate how everything can be used for good and evil.
Thanks for commenting!
Hi Nathaniel,Your website is a remarkable repository of knowledge, boasting a vast and comprehensive collection that spans a wide range of intriguing topics. Navigating through the wealth of information you’ve curated was both enlightening and enjoyable.I found a particular gem in your content, specifically in the exploration of “The 7th Spiritual Law of Success.” The perspective you offer on this subject is not only refreshing but also serves as a guiding light for those seeking a deeper understanding of life. The emphasis on these insights resonates deeply with me, creating a profound impact.Thank you for consistently providing such valuable and thought-provoking content.Best regards,Dean
Greetings, Dean – Many thanks for your encouraging words of appreciation regarding the website. I am happy that you find the website enjoyable and a blessing. Feel free to visit regularly, as I plan to publish content regularly with God’s help.
Thanks for commenting!
Hi, I am a fan of the Bible because it’s such a fascinating book.maybe because it’s so old. But I like how you said following the will of God which is something that isn’t talked about enough. We forget that God or the universe has its own agenda and we are not in control of that. That’s why I don’t personally believe in free will. How about you?
Hi Jake – I do recognize free will. Throughout the Scriptures, we see God offering the choice of life or death (e.g., Deuteronomy 30:19), while encouraging us to choose life. He really wishes for all of us to be saved. 2 Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
Thanks for commenting!
The article you provided dives into the biblical interpretation of the lion as a symbol of strength and power, particularly in relation to 1 Peter 5:8. It connects this biblical reference to current events in the Middle East, emphasizing the perceived threat to Israel and drawing parallels to other global conflicts. The message encourages Christians to be vigilant, drawing upon various biblical passages for guidance, and concludes by highlighting the hope in Jesus Christ’s eventual triumph over all adversaries, including Satan. It provides a spiritual perspective on current events and encourages readiness for the challenges believers may face.
Greetings, Ela – Your words clearly indicate that you have grasped the true meaning of the article.
Thanks so much for commenting!
Hello Bob,I am thrilled by your captivating post “The Lion and the Bible” on The Christian Advocate! Your thought-provoking exploration of the symbolic significance of lions in the Bible, particularly in the context of strength, power and spiritual warfare, has truly ignited my imagination. Your insightful analysis of biblical passages, cleverly connecting them to present-day global events, offers a fresh and contemporary perspective on timeless themes. What are your thoughts on finding hope and resilience in challenging times, anchored in the promises of Jesus?Thank you for writing such a thought provoking post. I look forward to your response.
Greetings, Starlight – I’m unsure of who Bob is, but I appreciate your question.
If we follow the Scriptures earnestly, they give us hope. For example, Romans 8:24-25 reads:
24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees?
25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. NKJV
When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, we do so because we have faith and hope that we will be saved when He returns. Although it seems far away now and difficult to see, we remain hopeful. Remember, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. “Hebrews 11:1 NIV
Even though things are challenging now, we cannot allow our faith to dwindle because of what we see in the present. “For we walk by faith, not by sight:” 2 Cor 5:7
Thanks for commenting!
Thank you for reminding me of the presence of evil in the world. As a resident of NYC have seen the increase in violence for violence sake, the division sown across religion, racial, and gender by our media and certain political figures which has resulted in more anger and violence. These are scary times because a vocal amoral minority has shouted down the moral majority.
Greetings Bernard – Yes, the local vocal amoral is the lion roaring around us. But we must remain focused on the Lion of Judah, Jesus, which will have the last roar.
Thanks for commenting!
I believe that your assessment of what is transpiring, not only in the middle east but globally, is absolutely accurate. Accordingly, there is only one sure way to successfully navigate and that is through the Word. Personally, Psalm 91 was our rock in 2020. Other aspects of the Word have kept us on a solid path since. Yes we have had to guard our minds against the wiles of Satan. And yes, as you quite rightly point to, the full armor of God is a necessity in these turbulent times. I also agree that there is more to come but all according to God’s plan. I do believe that we are headed for a thousand years of peace but that time is not yet. I have noticed that more and more are turning back to God in the recognition that, as set out in Scripture, Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life. I admire your command Scripture and I am reminded of the verses in Matthew 7: 13-14 “enter by the narrow gate” I often think about those verses and I do believe that more and more are beginning to realize the wisdom contained therein.I thank you for your well-written post. It is encouraging and uplifting. I know that your readers will embrace your message. It is so timely and, in my opinion, such a very accurate assessment of where we are.Grant Rayner
Greetings, Grant – I appreciate your positive feedback on this article. I pray that it will lead others to the reality of the truth of the times we’re living in and how to survive them.
Thanks for commenting!
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It’s funny that the Bible presents two faces of the lion. On one hand, you have the Lion of Judah which represent Christ. So you think about the regal and majestuous side of the lion. In this case, the lion is the savior who is there to defend his people. On the other hand, the devil is also depicted as a roaring lion. But in this case, he attacks people who sin all the time, and who are not sober and vigilant. Thanks for reminding us of this, I’ve never thought of that when I read the Bible!
For sure, angelce 903, we must be sober and vigilant because the roaring lion never gives up!
Thanks for commenting!
What can I say? This article is very well written, each area is well defined and very well explained. You tell your readers what the word says about the devil and how he would temp you and you tell how the word helps you to prevent the devil from enticing you. Again, well done. I like this article and the way it was written very much! Keep up the Good Work!
Larry
Thanks for commenting Larry!
What a coincidence; today, the second day of my fast I come across your article that speaks to my situation! 1 Peter 5:8, yep, I’ve heard this verse being preached before but today, I’ve come to understand it better. Throughout the fast a Lion (a.k.a the devil) comes in different forms; temptations, things like worrying about my problems, bad feelings of isolation, excessive feelings of hunger etc. This comes as a test for my Christianity walk when I see your suggestion tools, the acronym H-A-L-T. Given that H is for not being excessively Hungry. Thank you for this insightful article!
Greetings Sipheni – For sure we are vunerablel to the lion when fasting. After all, Satan attacked Jesus as He had fasted for forty days and forty nights. I pray that you remain strong during your fast.
Thanks for commenting!
Thank you for providing a very thorough scripture lesson on 1 Peter 5:8. The world is indeed in a time of trials right now where leaders both great and small are “roaring” at each other and being destructive. It’s at these times we truly need to remember we have our own lion in Jesus who loves us and has the power to take all that roaring and turn it to good…even if we can’t see/understand how He will do that right now.
Yes, Jennifer – It is vital for us to remember that we have our own lion that roars much louder than the lion in 1 Peter 5:8. In Jesus, we have the Lion of Judah, the most powerful of lions.
Thanks for commenting!
This is a very thought-provoking exploration of the symbolic meaning of lions in the Bible, and particularly in relation to strength, power, and spiritual warfare. I have never really considered that the devil, and thus evil, could be represented by the lion. But we clearly see in the war that is raging in the Middle East, and also in the Ukraine, how evil has infiltrated and killing thousands.
Interesting then that you also say that Jesus is the lion, something that I do not quite understand. I understand that Jesus has overcome evil, but how can the devil be a lion, and also Jesus? I did not quite understand your explanation of this, so can you please expand a bit more. Thank you.
Greetings, LineCrowley – It’s always good to hear from you! Sure, I’m happy to explain. Remember, the Scriptures use the lion mostly symbolically to depict strength and it’s a matter of context as to how it is applied. Just as it depicts the strength of the devil and evil, it does the same with Jesus for righteousness.
Take the Scripture used in the article, 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.” This Scripture refers to Jesus because His birth came through the tribe of Judah and the line of David. He is the strongest vessel that has come through that line; therefore, He is considered the lion of Judah.
In the Scripture, we see that the Lion [Jesus] will be victorious, “triumphed,” and will carry out the will of God in the end.
I hope and pray that I’ve answered your question.
Thanks, as always!
Hi A very beautiful article about the lion and what it represent from bible or Christian’s perspective. You have been able to articulate it in a manner that I could understand. I have always being saying the bible is a difficult book to understand. It needs understanding, interpretation and application. And that’s exactly what you have done in this article. I now understand what these verses mean to me in my daily life. We see things happening around the world but , have never been able to articulate them like you have done.Thank for sharing Richard
Greetings Richard – I am so glad this article has spiritually fed you. It is the Holy Spirit that enables us to understand the Scriptures. I pray that you will continue to seek understanding of the Word.
Thanks for commenting!
Nathaniel, this post is an impressive analysis of Bible scriptures, which you have skilfully applied to the present chaotic state of the world. The lion is a mighty creature, and that he can be both Satan and Jesus stalking around the world looking for quarry to destroy and save respectively, is powerful.Your post makes the scriptures and their timeless messages ring out. This is thought-provoking.I was born to lapsed-Christian parents and devout grandparents/clergy great-grandparents but it wasn’t for me as I became an adult. I turned to Buddhism and have been practising for many years. My mind is more suited to the scientific nature of Buddhism. The Lion’s roar in Buddha’s teachings refers to supreme confidence and happiness no matter what our circumstances. Is this the kind of feeling that the Lion of Jesus inspires in you?I believe we may all seem to be on different paths of faith, but the summit we are moving towards is the same—human Happiness and Love. THank you for reminding me of this with your pure faith.Blessings and success to you.
Greetings Linden – When observing the Scriptures addressing the Lion of Judah, which includes Jesus, it is inspiring because He ultimately overcomes all of the vitriol and evil events occurring worldwide. The summit Christians are looking forward to is eternal life with Jesus.
Thanks for commenting!