Jesus is our Advocate
Written by Molly Perry
Our sin leaves us feeling isolated, distant, and helpless. It is a darkness that can overwhelm us. But, as Christ-Followers, we have Jesus.
Even in our shortcomings, we can find peace that transcends all understanding – because Jesus is our advocate.
In 1 John 2:1, John is reminding us that while we should never affirm or accept sin, there is an advocate for us so that we do not have to feel the full weight of our sin.
My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.
Recently, we talked about this in our teaching series, ‘The Real Thing.’ We learned that the word ‘advocate’ in this verse comes from the Greek word, ‘Parakletos,’ meaning:
- Advocate
- Counselor
- Helper
As Christ-Followers, this is exciting! It means that we are not alone in our sin. We have a defender, and his name is Jesus. He is the Son of God, defending us so that even in our brokenness we can know God.
John goes on to explain this in 1 John 2:2;
He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
This is the Gospel.
Jesus defended humanity to the point of death on a cross, so that we can know God.
This is why we have peace that transcends all understanding. Because we have a Savior who meets us in our brokenness, and transforms us from the inside out. Not because of what we’ve done, or because ‘our case is convincing,’ but because he loves us.
Jesus brings forgiveness, restoration, comfort, peace, transformation.
Jesus changes everything.
