Jesus: Our Advocate and Atonement for Sin

Devotional

Day 1: The Call to Holiness

God’s command to live without sin is not new but deeply rooted in the Old Testament. Leviticus 20:26 calls us to be holy as God is holy. This is a tall order, but it underscores the importance of striving for purity in our lives. Holiness is not just about avoiding sin but living a life that reflects God's character. The call to holiness is a call to be set apart, to live in a way that honors God and demonstrates His love and righteousness to the world.

In 1 John 2:1-2, we are reminded that while we strive for holiness, we have an advocate in Jesus Christ who intercedes on our behalf. This means that even when we fall short, Jesus is there to plead our case before the Father. This should not make us complacent but rather inspire us to live lives that are worthy of the calling we have received. Holiness is both a command and a privilege, a way to experience the fullness of life that God intends for us. [41:27]

Leviticus 20:26 (ESV): "You shall be holy to me, for I the Lord am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine."

Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to live a life that reflects God's holiness? How can you strive for purity in your thoughts, words, and actions?

Day 2: Jesus as Our Advocate

In 1 John 2:1, we learn that Jesus is our advocate with the Father. This means He represents us before God, pleading our case. Unlike the high priest who had to offer sacrifices for his own sins, Jesus is sinless and can truly intercede on our behalf. This gives us confidence to approach God's throne of grace. Knowing that Jesus is our advocate should fill us with immense comfort and assurance.

Jesus' role as our advocate is not just a legal representation but a personal one. He knows our struggles, our weaknesses, and our failures, yet He stands before the Father on our behalf. This advocacy is rooted in His love for us and His desire to see us reconciled with God. It is a reminder that we are never alone in our spiritual journey; Jesus is always there, interceding for us and providing the grace we need to persevere. [42:42]

Hebrews 4:14-16 (ESV): "Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."

Reflection: How does knowing that Jesus is your advocate change the way you approach God in prayer? What burdens can you bring to Him today, trusting in His intercession?

Day 3: The Concept of Propitiation

Propitiation, or atonement, is the means by which God's wrath is turned away from us. This is vividly illustrated in the Day of Atonement rituals where the high priest would sprinkle blood on the mercy seat. This act symbolized the covering of the people's sins, prefiguring Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. The concept of propitiation is central to understanding the depth of God's love and justice.

In the Old Testament, the high priest's act of sprinkling blood on the mercy seat served as a barrier between God's judgment and the broken commandments inside the Ark. This act prefigures Jesus' ultimate sacrifice, where His blood covers our sins, allowing us to stand righteous before God. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate act of propitiation, turning away God's wrath and reconciling us to Him. This profound truth should lead us to a deeper appreciation of the cross and a greater commitment to live for Him. [43:44]

Romans 3:25-26 (ESV): "Whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus."

Reflection: How does the concept of propitiation deepen your understanding of Jesus' sacrifice? In what ways can you express your gratitude for His atoning work today?

Day 4: The Significance of "Tetelestai"

Jesus' declaration "It is finished" on the cross signifies the completion of His atoning work. This word, used in various contexts such as receipts and victory cries, underscores that Jesus' sacrifice covers all sins—past, present, and future. It is a powerful reminder that our debt of sin is fully paid. The significance of "tetelestai" is profound, as it assures us that nothing more is needed for our salvation; Jesus has done it all.

The word "tetelestai" was commonly used in the ancient world to indicate that a debt had been paid in full. When Jesus uttered this word on the cross, He was declaring that the work of redemption was complete. This means that we no longer have to strive to earn God's favor; it has been freely given through Jesus' sacrifice. This truth should fill us with peace and confidence, knowing that our salvation is secure in Him. [01:00:05]

Colossians 2:13-14 (ESV): "And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross."

Reflection: What does "It is finished" mean to you personally? How can you live in the freedom and assurance that Jesus' finished work provides?

Day 5: Covered in Pitch

Just as Noah's Ark was covered in pitch to survive the flood, we are covered by the blood of Jesus. This covering ensures our salvation through God's judgment. It is not our efforts but Jesus' finished work that seals our eternity. This gives us assurance and peace as we face life's challenges. The imagery of being covered in pitch is a powerful reminder of God's protection and provision.

In the story of Noah, the pitch served as a waterproofing agent, ensuring that the Ark would withstand the floodwaters. Similarly, the blood of Jesus covers us, protecting us from the judgment we deserve and securing our place in God's family. This covering is not something we can earn; it is a gift of grace. As we reflect on this truth, we should be filled with gratitude and a desire to live in a way that honors the One who has saved us. [01:03:30]

1 Peter 1:18-19 (ESV): "Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot."

Reflection: How does the imagery of being covered by Jesus' blood impact your understanding of salvation? In what ways can you live out your gratitude for this covering in your daily life?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Good morning, everyone. Today, we delved into 1 John Chapter 2, focusing on verses 1 and 2, but also touching on verses 7 and 8 for context. The book of 1 John emphasizes three main themes: the zeal of believers to live pure lives, standing firm against false teachings, and the assurance of salvation. John reminds us that the command to live without sin is not new but rooted in the Old Testament, specifically in Leviticus, where God calls His people to be holy as He is holy.

In 1 John 2:1-2, we learn that Jesus is our advocate and the propitiation for our sins. Propitiation, or atonement, means turning away God's wrath through a sacrifice. This concept is vividly illustrated in the Old Testament rituals, particularly the Day of Atonement, where the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies to offer a blood sacrifice on the mercy seat, symbolizing the covering of the people's sins.

We explored the significance of the Ark of the Covenant and the mercy seat, where God's presence was visually represented. The high priest's act of sprinkling blood on the mercy seat served as a barrier between God's judgment and the broken commandments inside the Ark. This act prefigures Jesus' ultimate sacrifice, where His blood covers our sins, allowing us to stand righteous before God.

The Hebrew word "kaphar," meaning to cover or atone, was used in various contexts in the Old Testament, illustrating the multifaceted nature of atonement. Whether it was Jacob appeasing Esau with gifts or the Israelites paying a ransom during a census, the concept of covering or paying for sin was central.

Jesus' declaration on the cross, "It is finished" (tetelestai), signifies the completion of His atoning work. This word, used in various contexts such as receipts and victory cries, underscores that Jesus' sacrifice covers all sins—past, present, and future. Just as Noah's Ark was covered in pitch to survive the flood, we are covered by the blood of Jesus, ensuring our salvation through God's judgment.

As we reflect on these truths, let us remember that our salvation is not based on our efforts but on Jesus' finished work. He is our advocate, and His blood covers us, allowing us to stand confidently before God.

###

Key Takeaways

1. The Call to Holiness: God’s command to live without sin is not new but deeply rooted in the Old Testament. Leviticus 20:26 calls us to be holy as God is holy. This is a tall order, but it underscores the importance of striving for purity in our lives. Holiness is not just about avoiding sin but living a life that reflects God's character. [41:27]
2. Jesus as Our Advocate: In 1 John 2:1, we learn that Jesus is our advocate with the Father. This means He represents us before God, pleading our case. Unlike the high priest who had to offer sacrifices for his own sins, Jesus is sinless and can truly intercede on our behalf. This gives us confidence to approach God's throne of grace. [42:42]
3. The Concept of Propitiation: Propitiation, or atonement, is the means by which God's wrath is turned away from us. This is vividly illustrated in the Day of Atonement rituals where the high priest would sprinkle blood on the mercy seat. This act symbolized the covering of the people's sins, prefiguring Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. [43:44]
4. The Significance of "Tetelestai": Jesus' declaration "It is finished" on the cross signifies the completion of His atoning work. This word, used in various contexts such as receipts and victory cries, underscores that Jesus' sacrifice covers all sins—past, present, and future. It is a powerful reminder that our debt of sin is fully paid. [60:05]
5. Covered in Pitch: Just as Noah's Ark was covered in pitch to survive the flood, we are covered by the blood of Jesus. This covering ensures our salvation through God's judgment. It is not our efforts but Jesus' finished work that seals our eternity. This gives us assurance and peace as we face life's challenges. [01:03:30]
### [63:30]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[38:47] - Introduction to 1 John
[40:13] - Old and New Commandments
[41:27] - The Call to Holiness
[42:42] - Jesus as Our Advocate
[43:44] - Understanding Propitiation
[44:36] - The Holy of Holies
[45:20] - Visual Lessons from God
[46:19] - The Day of Atonement
[47:00] - The Role of the High Priest
[47:38] - God's Presence in the Tabernacle
[48:15] - Facing Tomorrow with God
[48:49] - The Mercy Seat and the Blood
[49:20] - Human Characteristics of God
[49:56] - The Covering of Sin
[50:36] - Jesus as Our High Priest
[51:20] - Hebrews 4:14-16
[52:25] - The Concept of Kaphar
[53:18] - Various Uses of Kaphar
[54:12] - Jacob and Esau
[55:06] - The Outer Altar
[55:31] - Covering Sin
[56:11] - Paying the Debt
[56:52] - The Idea of Ransom
[57:42] - Cleansing and Atonement
[58:31] - Judgment Seat of God
[59:18] - Jesus as Our Advocate
[59:40] - The Debt is Paid
[60:05] - It is Finished
[61:10] - The Victory Cry
[62:16] - Perfect Tense of Tetelestai
[63:00] - Covered in Pitch
[63:30] - Noah's Ark and the Flood
[64:22] - The Work of Christ
[65:14] - Sealed by Jesus' Blood
[65:42] - Assurance of Salvation
[66:07] - Closing Prayer
[67:06] - Parting Blessing

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What are the three main themes emphasized in the book of 1 John according to the sermon? ([38:47])
How does the sermon describe the role of Jesus as our advocate? ([42:42])
What Old Testament ritual is used to illustrate the concept of propitiation in the sermon? ([43:44])
What does the Hebrew word "kaphar" mean, and how is it used in different contexts in the Old Testament? ([52:56])

Interpretation Questions

How does the command to be holy in Leviticus 20:26 relate to the call for believers to live without sin in 1 John 2:1-2? ([41:27])
In what ways does Jesus' role as our advocate differ from the high priest's role in the Old Testament? ([42:42])
What is the significance of Jesus' declaration "It is finished" (tetelestai) on the cross, and how does it relate to the concept of atonement? ([01:00:05])
How does the imagery of Noah's Ark being covered in pitch relate to the concept of being covered by the blood of Jesus? ([01:03:30])

Application Questions

Reflecting on the call to holiness, what are some practical steps you can take to strive for purity in your daily life? ([41:27])
How does knowing that Jesus is your advocate give you confidence in approaching God, especially in times of failure or sin? ([42:42])
The sermon mentioned various uses of the word "kaphar" in the Old Testament. Can you think of a situation in your life where you needed to "cover" or make amends for something? How did you handle it? ([52:56])
Jesus' declaration "It is finished" signifies the completion of His atoning work. How does this assurance impact your view of your past, present, and future sins? ([01:00:05])
The sermon used the analogy of Noah's Ark being covered in pitch to describe our salvation. How does this imagery help you understand the security of your salvation in Christ? ([01:03:30])
In what ways can you remind yourself daily that your salvation is based on Jesus' finished work and not on your own efforts? ([01:05:14])
How can you use the understanding of Jesus as your advocate to support and encourage others in your small group or community who may be struggling with sin or doubt? ([42:42])

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "When Jesus was on the cross, one of the last things he said was, it is finished, right? The New Testament was written in Greek. The word there uses tetelestai. Tetelestai is kind of an interesting word. It can be translated, the work is complete. And that's a great starter for that translation. Jesus is saying, it is finished. Tetelestai. I've done everything that's required." [01:00:05] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "So the picture there is interesting because now the priest is coming to represent the people, so he is their advocate. He's saying, God, I know the people of our nation have sinned, and you've called us to be holy. I'm coming to say to you that they have brought a sacrifice. This is the blood from the sacrifice. And the visual is interesting, right?" [48:49] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "So if Christ is your savior this morning you are covered in the pitch of his blood. It's how you're saved for judgment day. It's nothing you've done. Your eternity is sealed by the blood of Jesus. So when we come to our last day when we come and stand before the throne can stand before God and we can say to tell us die and that is our victory cry that it has been finished it's been paid and Jesus did it all." [01:05:14] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "We have a debt of sin. We cannot pay it. We have nothing to pay it. And he says, kathar, I'll cover it. Right? So the idea of ransom, you might think, well, that's an odd one. Can we pay off our sins? And it's kind of odd. But if you look in Exodus 30, it's talking about taking a census and a census tax." [56:52] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "It reminded me of one of the songs we sang, a few minutes ago, that we can face tomorrow because God is with us. And he wanted them to see that visually, that he was in the midst of them, to be with them through all their struggles. So now he's saying, here I have another teaching for you. The priest is going to bring this sacrifice for your sin." [48:15] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "The first is the zeal of believers, so how we need to be pure in our life, to live without sin in our life is a dominant theme, and that's certainly in this chapter. The second is to stand firm against false teachers, because John was writing, against the influence of Gnostic thinking. And then the third is the assurance of salvation for Christians." [38:47] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "So you see, when John is talking here about living pure and being holy, living without sin, and he says this is nothing new, this is not a new commandment, this is an old commandment, he's potentially thinking of Leviticus, where it says it right there. You shall be holy to me, right? Without sin, to be holy, like the Lord is holy. It's quite a tall order for us to handle." [41:27] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "So this is interesting. You know, it says he has been tempted in every way that we are. Well, that high priest in that picture from Leviticus would have been tempted just like everyone in the nation of Israel. He too should have brought a sacrifice for his own sins. We know he puts a white robe on and that's just a visual. That doesn't mean he's pure. That's just showing that you need to be pure in order to approach God." [51:54] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "So the idea of covering sin is kind of an interesting thing. I think a good illustration of that is if you think of like a ledger, nowadays everything is done on computers so you don't quite get the visual, but a ledger where somebody would be writing down what you owe them. Maybe the old country store where you would have an account and they would write down, okay, George owes this, George owes that. Every time you come in, end of the month, hey, George, you owe $600 now. Can you pay up?" [55:31] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "So if you visualize God as the bright light above the mercy seat and realize that in the Ark of the Covenant below him is the Ten Commandments. We've broken those commandments. He is right above that. But when the high priest sprinkles the blood on there, it's almost as if, he is making a barrier that when God looks down at the Ten Commandments to compare us to that and say, you haven't met up to the requirements, that instead he sees the blood." [49:56] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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