Dear beloved, let us continue our study of the names and titles for Jesus. Last month, we began a study on the “assistance names” for Jesus, beginning with “Intercessor.” This month we continue to study the “assistance names” by focusing on Jesus as “the Advocate.”
John writes in his first letter to Ephesus, “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” 1 John 2:1 (ESV). The Greek word for advocate, parakletos, is defined as “a person who acts as a spokesperson or representative of someone else’s policy, purpose, or cause; especially before a judge in a court of law.” Therefore, the term “advocate” conjures up scenes of courtroom drama. Often, when individuals find themselves in a legal situation, they will hire a lawyer to be an advocate on their behalf. In these legal contexts, lawyers will often request their clients remain silent while they argue the case for the client’s benefit before a judge or jury. Jesus acts in a similar manner before the Father for our benefit. The devil is the accuser, who accuses the saints night and day before God (Revelation 12:10). Jesus, who suffered in our behalf as the substitute for our sin is qualified and capable as the priest after the order of Melchizedek to represent our cause in the court of heaven (Hebrews 5:6-1). Christ’s defense in our behalf relies primarily upon his atoning work on the cross.
Elmer towns points out that Jesus as “Intercessor” pleads with the Father that we might not sin, and as our Advocate He stands with us and argues for our benefit after we have sinned. I leave you with this story:
The story is told of an old gardener, who was a rough, though sometimes gentle man. He was questioned one day as to his unorthodox behavior. His reply was with an analogy of his life struggle. He said, “A few days ago the devil came to tempt me. He was a crafty sort, much like a lawyer debates. When I could no longer argue with him, I asked the nature of his actions towards me. His reply was concerning my soul {which he desperately desired}. I answered to him explaining that Christ has received my soul, ‘lock, stock, and barrel.’ If the devil wanted my soul, he must talk to my Advocate, Jesus Christ.” (AMG Bible Illustrations)
Until next time, this is Pastor Daniel writing, “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.”