My wife and I enjoy a good courtroom drama. There’s a familiar moment in many of them: the accused becomes overwhelmed and blurts something out in the middle of proceedings. The judge doesn’t argue with the accused. Instead, the judge turns to the lawyer and says, “Counselor, advise your client.” 

In a courtroom, you don’t want to represent yourself. You may be sincere. You may be emotional. But you don’t know the system. You don’t know how to frame your case. You need someone who understands the law, who can speak clearly and confidently on your behalf. 

Paul uses courtroom language in Romans 8. “Who will bring any charge?” “Who is to condemn?” 

And then he gives astonishing assurance: Christ Jesus is the one who died, who was raised, who now stands at the right hand of God — and who intercedes for us. 

This is not a reluctant God being persuaded. It is the crucified and risen Son standing in the place of authority, speaking on behalf of those He has already redeemed. 

And even when we don’t know how to pray — when our words fail or our faith feels thin — the Spirit intercedes within us. The God who judges justly is the same God who, in Son and Spirit, speaks for us and sustains us.

We are not left to argue our own case. 

We are hidden in Christ. 

Take a few moments to read this Sunday’s texts (click here), and join us in person or online. Come and rest in the One who stands for you. 

Grace and peace, 

Pastor Jeremy