“…Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll, and to loose its seven seals.” – Revelation 5:5b 

Scripture reading: Revelation 5

When John weeps because no one is found who is worthy to open the scroll of the unfolding of history, we are once more introduced to Jesus Christ as a Lion, this time a victorious Lion. He has prevailed, which means He has conquered so that He is now found worthy to open the scroll. Why is Jesus able to open the scroll? Because He is not only spotless and pure, but He has conquered sin, death and hell, and continues to conquer them in the lives of each one of His children.

After John is introduced to the Lion, he turns to the place from which the voice came. And when John looks, he doesn’t see a Lion, but a Lamb! Jesus is the victorious Lion, Who conquered by being the Lamb as though it had been slain. Jesus is the Lamb that offered Himself up for His people. He was slain on the cross and we are called to worship Him as the slain Lion-Lamb.

This Lion-Lamb from the tribe of Judah still invites sinners like you and me close. When you are close, changed by His victory over sin, death and hell, be comforted that He is also the Mighty Lion, Who can defend you! Yes, Who saves sinners who come to Him to the utmost and shares His victory with them. How glorious and precious is Jesus, the Lion of the tribe of Judah. Trust Him as the Lamb, before you meet Him as the victorious Lion.

Suggestions for prayer

Thank God that Jesus is the worthy Lion-Lamb. Approach Him based on His victory on the cross. Ask Him to protect you and pray for the grace to find fresh comfort in His wounds.

Rev. Pieter van der Hoek served the Heritage Reformed Church of Burgessville ON Canada since May 2017. This year he took a call to the Heritage Reformed Church of Hull, Iowa USA. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.