Out of nowhere, I heard the words, “All Rise!” You know them, it’s how court is called to order. My heart dropped to my toes as I thought about being put on trial before a holy God without Jesus. I thought of the souls that might try to and how their sentence will be delivered. I thought of His mercy being missed or rejected, and I welled up with tears.
Apart from Jesus, the gavel falls and we are declared guilty. We need to all rise up and get the news out that Jesus is on our side. The case has already been finalized. It is finished and we are free from all charges because of Him. The standard is pure holiness for us to win our case to enter heaven’s gates and the land of the free. Ain’t no way apart from Jesus! We can’t earn it. I know my record, you know yours.
To plead is to earnestly beg, to offer reasons for something. Calvary offers a display of the judgement we deserve, earnest love is demonstrated there as Jesus served our sentence “while we were still sinners.” (Romans 5:8)
Could you imagine trying to plead your own case before a holy God?
God is a God of grace, mercy AND justice. Justice was served on our behalf. Our only recourse, our only plea, is Jesus.
“We have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the One who is truly righteous. (1 John 2:1) “Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but He died for sinners to bring us safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but He was raised to life.” (1 Peter 3:18)
Are you trusting in Jesus who will safely bring you home? His reach is far. His favor is upon us. Only by the shedding of blood is there forgiveness. It has been accomplished. Alleluia!
Jesus, thank you that You plead our case and plead for us in prayer to be sealed by Your mercy and then go tell others. Your love, extravagant. Your sacrifice and forgiveness, immense. There’s none like you. Praise Your most holy name.
FOR MORE: A song of declaration, our only plea. Trust In Jesus By: Third Day.
