1 John 2:1, 2

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 ~ 1 John 2:1, 2

John’s words are familiar to those spoken by Paul in Romans 6, though John is the only one to use the word “Advocate” in reference to Christ. Paul speaks about grace freeing us from sin, whereas John speaks directly that though we are Christ followers, we may still sin. Paul speaks rather subtly about the fact that we are still creatures which can be ruled by sin if we give in to our temptations. The defining difference now is, if we sin, we are not cast out from God’s sight, for Jesus died for our sins and for the sins of the whole world. This does not mean we do not need to acknowledge our sin or repent for our sin, we most certainly do, but when we miss the mark, Jesus stands in our place to reconcile us to God. He stood in our place on the cross, taking all that we can do or will do upon His own torn body. Sin may take hold for a time, but it will not conquer us through Christ! How wonderful to know that when I miss the marks of life Christ stands ready to reprieve my failure! What a good, good God we serve! Thank you, Jesus for taking my place on the cross!

Devotion by Pastor Julia