The Advocate's Plea (v3)

1. The Foundation (Introduction)

In the beautiful lyrics of "The Advocate's Plea," we encounter profound truths rooted directly in Scripture. This song draws its essence primarily from 1 John 2:1-2:

*"My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not fall into sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world."*

This scripture provides assurance of Jesus Christ as our Advocate and the atoning sacrifice for our sins, underscoring the core of our faith. Therein lies a rich foundation that every believer should grasp firmly: the righteousness, advocacy, and atoning work of Jesus.

2. The Historical & Biblical Context

The Apostle John writes this letter in a heartfelt tone to the early Christian community, addressing them as "my dear children." His aim is straightforward—so that they might not indulge in sin. John, being the beloved disciple who leaned on Jesus' chest, understood the intimate nature of knowing Christ. The context surrounding the writing of 1 John reflects a period where there was confusion within the church, threats from false teachings, and a struggle to maintain purity in doctrine and practice.

John ministered during a time when Gnostic ideas were beginning to creep into the church—ideas that denied the incarnation of Christ, asserting that knowledge (gnosis in Greek) was the path to salvation, rather than faith and obedience. In essence, John both comforts and challenges his readers: while spiritual knowledge is vital, it must be linked with obedience to God's commands, and Jesus Christ is central as both our Advocate and Sacrifice.

3. Word Study (Hebrew/Greek)

Let us examine two critical terms from this passage:

1. Advocate (Greek: *Paraklētos*): This term is rich with meaning and is translated as "helper," "comforter," or "counselor." In the legal sense, it refers to one who comes alongside another to aid and defend them. Jesus, as our paraklētos, stands before the Father interceding on our behalf, embodying both our defense and comfort.

2. Atoning Sacrifice (Greek: *Hilasmós*): This word refers to propitiation, emphasizing Jesus as the means through which God's wrath is satisfied. It upholds the holiness of God, meeting divine justice by offering himself as the perfect sacrifice. Hilasmós underscores the completeness and sufficiency of His atoning work.

These terms illuminate our understanding of the depth and richness of Christ’s role for humanity.

4. Theological Exposition

The profound nature of the lyrics reflects pivotal theological truths:

Verse One: "My dear children… you will not fall into sin…"

John is not simply imparting a paternal tone; he is issuing a call to holiness. Through these words, God’s desire is not merely our justification, but our sanctification—that we grow in Christ-likeness, keeping from sin. However, John’s realism shines through as he acknowledges human frailty, diverting us immediately to our Advocate.

Verse Two and Refrains: "He himself is the atoning sacrifice..."

This is central to overcoming sin. Hebrews 10:10 confirms this by stating, “We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” Christ’s atoning work is universal in scope, not limited, but expansive—inviting everyone toward reconciliation with God.

Verse Three: "We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands…"

John articulates a crucial test of genuine faith: obedience. James 1:22 echoes this truth, “Do not merely listen to the word… Do what it says.” Obedience is the fruit of true knowing and loving God, ensuring that our profession of faith aligns with action.

Verse Four: "Whoever claims 'I know him' but does not…"

Here lies an urgent warning against hypocrisy. The truth of God is not merely intellectual assent but transformational. 1 John 3:18 aligns with this by urging believers: "Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth."

5. Practical Application: How to Walk This Out

To live out these truths, we must follow these steps:

6. A Proclamation & Prayer

Proclamation:

"Through Jesus Christ, I have an Advocate with the Father. I declare that He is my atoning sacrifice, and by His blood, I am cleansed from all sin. I commit to walking in His commandments, knowing that His love is made complete in me."

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we come to You in the name of Jesus, our Advocate and our Righteous One. We thank You for the atoning sacrifice of Christ, which redeems us and cleanses us from all sin. Empower us by Your Holy Spirit to live in obedience, reflecting Your love and truth. Keep us from sin, and when we falter, remind us to turn swiftly to Jesus who intercedes on our behalf. We trust in His finished work and rejoice in the assurance of salvation offered to the entire world. Amen.