The Lion Who Is Really a Lamb

Story to read: Worship in the Throne Room
Bible: Revelation 4–5

The Picture

In heaven, John saw a scroll — like a special rolled-up letter — that nobody could open. John felt sad about that. But someone told him, “Don’t cry! The Lion has won, and he can open it!”

John turned to look for a big, roaring lion. But instead, he saw a gentle Lamb. And it was the very same one — Jesus! Jesus is strong enough to be called the Lion, the bravest, most powerful one of all. But he is also gentle enough to be called the Lamb, kind and soft and close to us.

The strongest one in all of heaven is also the gentlest one. That’s Jesus: strong enough to win, gentle enough to hold you close.

Our Refrain

“Jesus wins, and he loves us.”

Ask: “Is Jesus strong like a lion, or gentle like a lamb?” (Both!)

Activity

Lion and Lamb Actions: Say “Jesus is strong like a lion!” and have children make a big brave pose, maybe a gentle “roar.” Then say “Jesus is gentle like a lamb!” and have them curl up small and soft, arms hugging themselves. Repeat a few times, going back and forth.

Coloring option: Color a simple picture with a lion and a lamb sitting together peacefully, to remind us they are both true about Jesus.

Simple Prayer

“Jesus, thank you for being strong like a lion and gentle like a lamb. I feel safe with you. Amen.”

Note for the Teacher

Skip the detail that the Lamb looks “as if it had been slain” (Revelation 5:6) — that points to the cross, which is worth teaching but not with wound imagery at this age. It’s enough here to say Jesus won by being willing to give up everything for us, out of love, and now he’s alive and strong forever.