Topical Bible: The Lion: Attacks the Sheepfolds

◄ The Lion: Attacks the Sheepfolds ►

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In biblical literature, the lion is often depicted as a symbol of strength, power, and sometimes danger. The imagery of a lion attacking the sheepfolds is a vivid representation of threats to the people of God, who are often symbolized as sheep under the care of the Good Shepherd.

Biblical References

The Bible contains several references to lions and their interactions with sheep or shepherds. One notable passage is found in 1 Samuel 17:34-35, where David recounts his experience as a shepherd: "Your servant has been tending his father’s sheep, and whenever a lion or a bear came and carried off a lamb from the flock, I went after it, struck it down, and rescued the lamb from its mouth. If it reared up against me, I would grab it by its fur, strike it down, and kill it" . This passage highlights the courage and protective nature of a shepherd, prefiguring Christ as the ultimate protector of His flock.

In the prophetic literature, lions are often used metaphorically to describe the enemies of Israel or the impending judgment of God. For instance, in Jeremiah 5:6, the prophet warns, "Therefore a lion from the forest will strike them down, a wolf of the desert will ravage them, a leopard will watch over their cities. Everyone who ventures out will be torn to pieces, because their transgressions are many, their apostasies are numerous" . Here, the lion represents the fierce and relentless nature of divine judgment against unfaithfulness.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The lion's attack on the sheepfolds can be interpreted as a metaphor for spiritual warfare. In 1 Peter 5:8, believers are admonished to "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" . This passage underscores the vigilance required of Christians to guard against spiritual threats and temptations that seek to lead them astray from the faith.

The imagery of the lion also serves as a reminder of the need for strong and faithful leadership within the church. Just as David protected his flock from predators, spiritual leaders are called to safeguard their congregations from false teachings and moral decay. The Apostle Paul, in Acts 20:28-29, exhorts the elders of the church: "Keep watch over yourselves and the entire flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood. I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock" .

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient Near East, lions were both feared and revered. They were known to inhabit the regions surrounding Israel and were considered formidable predators. The presence of lions in the biblical narrative reflects the real dangers faced by shepherds and their flocks. This cultural backdrop enriches the metaphorical use of lions in Scripture, providing a tangible illustration of the threats faced by God's people.

Theological Implications

The lion's attack on the sheepfolds serves as a powerful theological motif, illustrating the ongoing battle between good and evil. It emphasizes the need for divine protection and the assurance that God, as the ultimate Shepherd, will defend His people. The imagery also points to the eschatological hope found in Revelation 5:5, where Christ is depicted as the "Lion of the tribe of Judah," who has triumphed and secured victory for His people.

In summary, the lion's attack on the sheepfolds is a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative, representing both physical and spiritual threats. It calls believers to vigilance, faithfulness, and reliance on the protective power of God through Christ, the Good Shepherd.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 17:34
And David said to Saul, Your servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Amos 3:12
Thus said the LORD; As the shepherd takes out of the mouth of the lion two legs, or a piece of an ear; so shall the children of Israel be taken out that dwell in Samaria in the corner of a bed, and in Damascus in a couch.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Micah 5:8
And the remnant of Jacob shall be among the Gentiles in the middle of many people as a lion among the beasts of the forest, as a young lion among the flocks of sheep: who, if he go through, both treads down, and tears in pieces, and none can deliver.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... of heart."Why satest thou among the sheepfolds,"to hear ... where it was most exposed
to the attacks of the ... well its character""Dan is a lion's whelp that ...
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