Suppose you are in court as the defendant on several serious charges against you. You have hired a lawyer who, although unorthodox, has a perfect record as an advocate for his clients. The problem, however, is that you did commit the crimes and the evidence of your guilt is overwhelming and can’t be denied. At the trial, your lawyer does something really unusual. He stands before the judge and admits you are guilty. But then He offers to take the punishment for you and requests that you be set free.
I John 2:1-2 says, “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.” Jesus stands before the Father and pleads our case for forgiveness and justification. Only, His plea is not based upon any good that we have done. But rather, His plea is based upon what He has done for us by sacrificing Himself on the cross for us.
Reluctant Retiree 