The Lion and the Lamb

The concept of Jesus returning not as a lamb but as a lion is rooted in biblical prophecy, symbolising a shift from His role as a suffering servant to a conquering king. In His first coming, Jesus is often depicted as the Lamb of God, emphasizing His humility, sacrifice, and the atonement of sin. The lamb signifies innocence and meekness, reflecting His mission to offer Himself as a sacrifice for humanity’s salvation.

However, when discussing His second coming, Jesus is portrayed as the Lion of Judah, representing power, authority, and judgment. The lion is a symbol of kingship and strength, signifying that He will return not in submission but in triumph. Revelation 5:5 states, "The Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed." This indicates that Jesus’ return will be marked by the establishment of His eternal kingdom, where justice prevails.

In this context, the lion symbolizes His role as a righteous judge who will defeat evil, restore order, and reign in glory. The contrast between the lamb and lion highlights the fullness of Jesus' mission — from the gentle Redeemer to the powerful King, bringing both mercy and justice.