The Victory

The Intercession of Christ

Christ's intercession for us in the sanctuary above is as essential to the plan of salvation as was His death on the cross. By His death He began that work that He ascended to complete in heaven. We must enter by faith into the sanctuary, “where the forerunner has entered for us” (Hebrews 6:20). There the light from the cross is reflected. There we gain a clearer insight into the mysteries of redemption. 5TC 285.2

“He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13). If those who excuse their faults could see how Satan taunts Christ with their behavior, they would confess their sins and put them away. Through defects in the character, Satan works to gain control of the whole mind. He knows that if we cherish any of our defects, he will succeed. Therefore he constantly seeks to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatal lie that it is impossible for them to overcome. But Jesus declared to all who would follow Him: “My grace is sufficient for you.” “My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (2 Corinthians 12:9; Matthew 11:30). None should think their character defects are incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them. 5TC 285.3

We are now living in the great day of atonement. While the high priest was making atonement for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls by repentance for sin. Likewise, all who want their names to be kept in the book of life should now afflict their souls before God by true repentance. There must be deep, faithful heart-searching. The frivolous spirit that so many indulge must be put away. There is earnest warfare ahead for all who want to subdue the evil tendencies that try to control the life. Every one must be found without “spot or wrinkle or any such thing” (Ephesians 5:27). 5TC 285.4

At this time above all others it is important for every person to heed the Savior's counsel, “Watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is” (Mark 13:33). 5TC 286.1