The Advocate of Our Souls
In moments of spiritual darkness, when the weight of our sinfulness feels overwhelming, it’s easy to wonder if we’ve exhausted God’s patience. But the Bible reminds us that Jesus Christ is our advocate, always ready to defend us before the Father.
Intercession and Advocacy: A Personal Touch
While intercession is an ongoing aspect of Christ’s work, advocacy is a special intervention on our behalf when we need it most. It’s not a static part of his job description; rather, it’s a dynamic response to our specific situations. The Bible teaches that even after we’ve been united with Christ, we’ll still struggle with sin. But our regenerate state makes us more sensitive to the gravity of our sins, and that’s where Christ’s advocacy comes in.
Big Sins and Bigger Advocacy
Sometimes we commit big sins, and that’s exactly when Christ’s advocacy rises to the occasion. His defense of us is not based on our worthiness but on the merits of his own sufferings and death. Our salvation is not just a formula; it’s a personal relationship with a Savior who cannot bear to leave us alone.
Who Is Jesus in Our Moments of Weakness?
When we fail and stumble, Jesus stands up and defies all accusers. He’s our comforting defender, the one who’s always nearer than we think. His heart is such that he speaks in our defense even when we’re still struggling with sin. In that sense, his advocacy is itself our conquering of sin.
No Defense Necessary
We’re called to forsake our sins and mature into deeper levels of holiness. But when we don’t, our Savior doesn’t forsake us. Instead, he erupts in renewed advocacy, silencing all accusations and celebrating the Father’s embracing love. We don’t need to minimize or excuse our sin; we simply take it to the one who’s already advocating for us.
Driven to Jesus
Let your unrighteousness drive you to Jesus Christ, the righteous. Don’t try to collect yourself before coming to him; your very burden is what qualifies you to come. His ways are not our ways, and his love is unlike anything we can imagine. When you come to Christ for mercy and help, you’re going with the flow of his deepest wishes, not against them.
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