The Advocate's Plea (v4) - 1 John 2:1-2 | RaymaSongs

The Advocate's Plea (v4)

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📖1 John 2:1-2

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Lyrics

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. We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. Whoever claims “I know him” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in them. But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in them. He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. My dear children, if you sin— turn to Jesus, the Righteous One; He pleads for you before the Father. He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.

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Devotional & Insight

1. The Foundation

In 1 John 2:1-2, we encounter a profound declaration of Jesus Christ's role as our Advocate and atoning sacrifice: "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. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." This scripture speaks to the heart of the Gospel message—the grace and advocacy of Jesus Christ.

2. The Historical & Biblical Context

This epistle is penned by the Apostle John, the beloved disciple of Jesus. He addresses his readers as "dear children," indicating a pastoral concern and intimate relationship with them. At the time of writing, John is confronting false teachings and moral laxity infiltrating the early Christian communities. His purpose is twofold: to warn against sin and to assure believers of their redemption in Christ. This reassurance is essential, as the early church faces doctrinal confusion and the temptation to revert to sinful practices.

The Apostle John writes with the assurance that although believers may occasionally fall into sin, they possess an advocate in Jesus Christ, who intercedes on their behalf. This evokes a courtroom image, with Jesus representing the believer before God the Father.

3. Word Study (Hebrew/Greek)

Let us focus on two key terms: "Advocate" and "Atoning Sacrifice."

Advocate: The Greek word used here is "Parakletos," commonly translated as "Advocate," "Helper," or "Comforter." It conveys the idea of someone who comes alongside to support, defend, or plead one's cause. Jesus, as our Parakletos, is more than just a legal representative; He is our divine Helper, interceding for us out of profound love and commitment.

Atoning Sacrifice: The Greek term is "Hilasterion," often rendered as "propitiation." This signifies a sacrifice that appeases the wrath of God, turning it away from us. The concept here is rooted in the Old Testament sacrificial system, where the blood of animals was offered to atone for sin. Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of this system, offering Himself once and for all.

Understanding these terms enriches our comprehension of the work of Christ as depicted in the lyrics. Jesus is both our defender and the very means of our reconciliation with God.

4. Theological Exposition

John's writing encapsulates essential truths about Christ's redemptive work:

Advocacy and Righteousness: "But if anyone does sin, we have an Advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One." This mirrors Romans 8:34, where Paul declares that Jesus is at the right hand of God, interceding for us. Christ's righteousness is imputed to us, securing our standing before God.

Atonement for the World: "He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." This universal aspect emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. As 1 Timothy 2:5-6 states, "For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people."

True Knowledge of Christ: "We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands." Obedience to God's Word is evidence of knowing Him. Jesus Himself declared in John 14:15, "If you love me, keep my commands." True faith produces works in accordance with God’s commands.

Complete Love in Obedience: "But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in them." This alignment between word and deed is the mark of maturity in Christ. As John 14:23 articulates, "Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them."

5. Practical Application: How to Walk This Out

In light of these truths, here are practical steps for believers:

1. Acknowledge Your Need for an Advocate: Accept that you cannot attain righteousness by your own efforts. Acknowledge Jesus as your Advocate and Helper. Confess your sins, knowing He is faithful to forgive (1 John 1:9).

2. Rest in the Sufficiency of Christ’s Atonement: Believe that Jesus’ atoning sacrifice is sufficient for all your sins. Reject any condemnation that suggests otherwise (Romans 8:1).

3. Pursue Obedience as a Response to Love: Recognize that obedience is a natural response to knowing Christ. Commit to keeping His commands, not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude.

4. Cultivate a Lifestyle of Confession and Repentance: Regularly examine your heart and life. When you fall short, turn promptly to Jesus with repentance, trusting in His advocacy and grace.

6. A Proclamation & Prayer

Proclamation:

In the name of Jesus, the Righteous One, I declare that I have an Advocate before the Father. I am redeemed by the atoning sacrifice of Christ, and I am compelled by His love to walk in obedience to His commands. His sacrifice is sufficient for my sins and the sins of the whole world.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Jesus, my Advocate and atoning sacrifice. Grant me the grace to walk in obedience, upholding Your Word in every aspect of my life. I turn away from sin and embrace Your truth. Let Your love be made complete in me, for the glory of Your name. Amen.

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