1 John 2:1
“My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”

I just listened to a sermon by John Piper (http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/MediaPlayer/2665/Video/)
Regarding this scripture. He spoke about the tenderness that John used in writing this letter. He referred to the Christians he was writing to as his little children. That is indeed very comforting terminology. It conveys concern and compassion not harshness. This letter of 1 John is written so the Christian can test themselves and see if they are in the faith. Dr. Piper said that as the Christian reads 1 John they may begin to panic because the person who is truly born again is very aware and sorrowful over their sin that they know is a part of their lives every hour. He then referred us to this scripture that I just quoted and he spoke about the assurance, those in Christ Jesus have, when they sin. They assurance is that JESUS CHRIST THE RIGHTEOUS is our advocate! Now THIS is something to ponder on today and rejoice and be thankful about!