Do Not Weep

Behold Jesus, the Lion of Judah

Moe Bergeron

In the vision of Revelation, we encounter a moment of intense sorrow and despair. 

John, the apostle, weeps bitterly because no one is found worthy to open the scroll or even look inside it. This scroll represents the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan, the revelation of His ultimate purpose for creation and the execution of His righteous judgments. In the depths of this sorrow, a voice interrupts John’s tears. One of the elders proclaims, “Do not weep! Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed to open the scroll and its seven seals.”

The elder’s words echo through the ages, resounding with hope and triumph. This proclamation brings our attention to the majestic and victorious figure of Christ, the Lion of Judah. The title “Lion of Judah” is rich with historical and prophetic significance. It harks back to Jacob’s blessing over his son Judah in Genesis 49:9-10, where Judah is likened to a lion and promised a scepter that will not depart from him until the one to whom it belongs shall come.

Christ, the Lion of Judah, embodies this promise. 

He is the Root of David, a fulfillment of the prophecies that foretold a king from David’s lineage who would reign forever (Isaiah 11:1-10). This imagery conveys Christ’s strength, authority, and royal lineage. The Lion is a symbol of power and kingship, signifying that Christ is the conquering King who has triumphed over sin, death, and the powers of darkness.

In the moment of John’s weeping, we see the human response to hopelessness and despair. Yet, the elder’s command to “Do not weep!” shifts the focus from our human frailty to divine sovereignty. It is a call to recognize the triumph of Christ. No longer do we need to be consumed by sorrow, for Christ has prevailed. He alone is worthy to open the scroll because He has accomplished what no other could. His victory is complete, and His authority is unquestionable.

Truth, Tears, Sorrow… then Joy

This passage teaches us a crucial truth: our tears and sorrows, while real and valid, are not the final word. In our moments of deepest despair, when it seems that no one is worthy, we are reminded to lift our eyes and behold the Lion of Judah. His victory assures us that God’s redemptive plan is not thwarted. The scroll will be opened, and God’s purposes will be fulfilled because Christ has triumphed.

Moreover, the Lion of Judah who is powerful and mighty is also the Lamb who was slain, a juxtaposition that reveals the depth of Christ’s character. His triumph is not through conventional means of power and might but through His sacrificial love and self-giving. As the Lion, He conquers; as the Lamb, He redeems. This duality enriches our understanding of His victory and calls us to trust in His perfect work.

Therefore, in our lives, when we face moments of weeping and despair, let us remember the elder’s words: “Do not weep!” Let us look to Jesus, the Lion of Judah, and find in Him the assurance that He has triumphed. Our hope is secure in His victory, and our sorrows are transformed in the light of His redemptive power. Rejoice, for the Lion of Judah has conquered, and in His triumph, we find our peace.