OUR ADVOCATE

An 'advocate' stands in the place of those who cannot speak for themselves. He pleads their case before a judge. 

Such is the role of our Savior ... We have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous. And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world. (1 John 2:1-2)

Jesus is an impassioned Mediator for those who know Him as Lord. His advocacy is effectual because He is the One of whom the Father said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him, I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17) 

On the other side of the aisle, we see Satan ... who accuses us night and day. (Revelation 12:10)

Though he holds all the evidence, his attacks are thwarted ... Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. (Romans 8:33-34)

Spurgeon - How encouraging is the thought of the Redeemer’s never-ceasing intercession for us. When we pray, He pleads for us; and when we are not praying, He is advocating our cause, and by His supplications shielding us from unseen dangers. Here is a matter for joy, gratitude, hope, and confidence.

What was once a 'judgment hall' has become a 'sanctuary' ... Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:14-16) 

Though Christians are redeemed by that which took place on Calvary's cross, we continue to disobey the Lord's commands at times. Make no mistake ... your sins still grieve the Father's heart. Outside of Christ's intervention, eternal damnation is justified. Do you fully grasp the gravity of what is taking place in God's heavenly courtroom?