1. The atoning sacrifice (1-2)

We are God's children, and we don't want to sin. But when we are honest with ourselves, we know that we sin daily in thought, word and deed. Sin is serious, for it is rebellion against God; the wages of sin is death. When I stand before God's judgment throne, I can only plead guilty. But there is one who speaks to the Father in my defense. He is Jesus Christ the Righteous One who shed his blood on the cross to atone for my sins and the sins of the whole world. When I belong to him, his blood atones for my sins. He is my advocate, my defender; he speaks for me.

2. Obey him (3-6)

How do I know that I belong to Jesus? When by faith I obey his command to love others, I know I belong to him. When I accept his atoning sacrifice for my sins, he comes into my heart. His love begins to change my rebellious heart. I obey him and walk in his ways because I love him.

Application: Lord, thank you for Jesus' atoning death for my sins. Help me to love Jesus more and walk with him today.
One Word: Jesus is my friend and advocate