The "Lion's Roar"

Matthew 28:16-20

In an article on the Great Commission, as found in Matthew 28:16-20, Dr. Bryan Chapell, our stated clerk, retells the story of “Lambert, the sheepish lion.” He notes that Lambert, the sheepish lion, is ‘the unlikely story of a lion raised with lambs.’ He continues,

“As a lion among lambs, Lambert cannot figure out what he is supposed to be and as a result he cannot determine what he is supposed to do. Lambert has an identity problem.

“Because the cartoon is old-fashioned, you know the problem will be solved, but the solution comes through harsh realities; wolves attack the flock. When the lives of his loved ones are at stake Lambert’s real nature surfaces. He fights off wolves, and as a symbolic expression of his new-found identity he also finds his voice. This sheepish lion roars for the first time. Finally, Lambert has discovered who he is, and that battle roar tells all that he now knows of his real capabilities.”

Dr. Chapell connects this story of an identity crisis with the early account of the disciples. He writes that in Matt. 28, Jesus is addressing a similar identity crisis; one that his disciples are experiencing. He then concludes that “Jesus speaks to the problem through the Great Commission.”

This coming Lord’s Day we are excited to welcome back home to one of ours. Job and Shelby Scroggins have heard the call of God to go to the mission field and this Sunday they will share with us about their call and preparation to gospel work through JAARS (Jungle Aviation and Relay Services) with the Wycliffe Bible Translation.

Plan to join us this week as Job shares about his work as a jungle pilot with Wycliffe Bible translators. Then hear how we – who are often ‘sheepish’ – can sound a lion’s roar. 

For His Glory,

Pastor Wayne