Discover the profound role of Jesus as our advocate amidst life's struggles. Explore how His intercessory power transforms self-image and fosters internal strength. Delve into the idea of Jesus demanding justice through His sacrifice, reshaping beliefs about forgiveness and identity. The discussion emphasizes the comfort found in embracing the gospel, leading to renewed self-worth and a joyful perspective on life's challenges. It’s a heartfelt exploration of receiving divine support and redefining our relationship with faith.
Recognizing Jesus as our advocate frees us from the need for external validation, reshaping our identity and emotional responses to challenges.
Jesus’ eternal priesthood and singular sacrifice provide a secure foundation for believers, allowing confidence in their acceptance before God.
Deep dives
The Need for an Advocate
An advocate is essential for addressing our spiritual trials and challenges, as modern individuals often struggle with self-image and validation. The text discusses how the former regulations were inadequate for drawing near to God, emphasizing that everyone seeks some form of connection through intermediaries. This concept resonates today, as many people still seek approval and forgiveness from various sources rather than recognizing the role of Jesus as the true advocate. Understanding this need allows individuals to acknowledge their shortcomings and seek representation in their spiritual lives.
Jesus as the Ideal Advocate
Jesus serves as the perfect advocate because he possesses an eternal priesthood, living forever to intercede on our behalf. His role transcends that of previous priests who offered sacrifices repeatedly for their own sins, as he made a singular sacrifice once for all when he offered himself. The effectiveness of this advocacy hinges on the understanding that it's not our own performance that determines our worth but rather Christ's righteousness that is imputed to us. Furthermore, this assurance allows believers to stand confidently before God, linked to the life and merits of Christ rather than their own flawed attempts.
The Transformative Power of Believing
Accepting Jesus as your advocate profoundly alters your identity, abolishes guilt, and influences your emotional and spiritual responses to life challenges. When you see yourself through the lens of being in Christ, it fosters a secure identity that is not reliant on fluctuating self-perceptions or external validations. This shift mitigates feelings of discouragement by providing a stable foundation in Christ's enduring love and acceptance, changing how one encounters disappointment in life. Embracing this truth can lead to a more playful and courageous approach to life, as it releases individuals from the weight of self-judgment and societal expectations.
Living Out Your Identity in Christ
A true understanding of being 'in Christ' not only alters one's identity but also radically reshapes the way one approaches life's trials and tribulations. This newfound perspective encourages a life characterized by joy, humble confidence, and grace in the face of criticism or failure. Recognizing Jesus as the source of beauty and strength shifts the focus from oneself to the grace provided by Christ, fostering resilience in challenging situations. Ultimately, this understanding empowers individuals to live with courage, assuring them that their acceptance is anchored in Christ's unwavering intercession and love.
To be able to handle life, there’s nothing more practical than to know that Jesus is your advocate.
This isn’t just an abstract doctrinal issue. Because this whole book of Hebrews is written not as a theological treatise, but as a piece of intense pastoral counseling.
So let’s ask three questions: 1) why do we need an advocate? 2) how is Jesus Christ the advocate we need? and 3) what difference will it make in your life if you receive him as such?
This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on March 6, 2005. Series: Christ: Our Treasury (The Book of Hebrews). Scripture: Hebrews 7:18-27.
Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.
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