“if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1)

In a court of law, an advocate stands between the defendant and the judge and pleads on the defendant’s behalf. The advocate is in the defendant’s corner and represents the best of their intentions and character to the judge. The advocate would usually be professionally trained and posses skills, qualifications and a knowledge of the law that would allow him or her to defend and represent the client in ways that the client is unable to defend and represent themselves.

So it is with Jesus Christ the righteous. Paul correctly asserted that “all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God”(Romans 3:23). Each of us find ourselves in the role of defendant, having fallen short of the standard required to live again in God’s presence. We are powerless to overcome this on our own. Jesus, our true Advocate, stands between us and God the Father and not only pleads our case, but settles it, personally.

Jesus is apt to advocate for us, because he knows us and understands us. Paul explained “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)

Alma taught a similar principle to the people of Gideon: “and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities.

Now the Spirit knoweth all things; nevertheless the Son of God suffereth according to the flesh that he might take upon him the sins of his people, that he might blot out their transgressions according to the power of his deliverance; (Alma 7:12-13)”

Christ can be our perfect Advocate, because he knows what it is like to be us. He knows our infirmities not only in theory, but “according to the flesh”. An earthly advocate relies on external evidence and witness testimony, but the Savior knows our hearts and has paid the price for our sins. As we apply Christ’s atonement in our lives, the laws of justice and mercy are fulfilled and we may walk freely toward eternal life.