I intended to begin my study of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John last week. But I got a little sidetracked when I got to this verse, so I had to take a detour from the study guide and park here for a little bit.

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

What does “advocate” mean?

• one that pleads the cause of another
• one that defends or maintains a cause or proposal

I always find it helpful to look at the synonyms & antonyms of a word. Check these out:

As a believer in Christ, did you know that you have an advocate? a champion?
Did you know that Jesus is your friend? Your supporter?

John starts out saying “listen. the point of this letter is to help you stop sinning. BUT. in case you do end up sinning {which you will, because 1 john 1:8}, there’s someone supporting you before God. and it’s not just anyone. it’s God’s perfect, righteous, sinless Son: Jesus Christ.”

Hey. Did you know that you have a support system lined up for when you sin today? It’s not an encouraging friend, inspiring book, or your small group. It’s God’s Son, Jesus Christ. He is your Champion – advocating for you before the very throne of God.

So today –
when you get angry at your kids and irritated with your husband,
when you start worrying about tomorrow and are impatient with that stranger –
confess it to the Father.
And find your greatest support system in His Son.

p.s. if you’re looking for a great Bible study, consider joining me in this 123 John study. it’s free + excellent. I’m on week 2, so it’s almost like we’d be doing it at the same time. #twinning