Question from a reader:

Why is Christ in constant intercession for us if our sins are already atoned for? The Bible refers to Jesus sitting at the right hand of God, making constant intercession for us. My question is: since He already atoned for our sins, past, present, and future, why is constant intercession necessary? It’s not that I don't believe it (because I do), it’s just that I don't understand the reason this is needed. Can you help me to “get it”?

Answer from Randy Alcorn:

Christ intercedes for us for the same reason we intercede for each other—we need help, we need God's power to resist temptation and live holy lives. Atonement secures our salvation, but we live daily in the realm of sanctification, which is not done with, nor does it come automatically. Since the prayers of a righteous man are effective (James 5), what could be more effective than Christ's prayers for us? Still, we have freedom to choose, and even with Christ’s prayers God often allows us to make the wrong choice. Still, what an encouragement to know that even if no one else knows our needs and is praying for us, Christ does and is.

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