I Am
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When Moses encountered the burning bush and received his divine commission to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage, he anticipated the inevitable question of authority. God provided him with a profound response: "I AM has sent me to you." This declaration set Yahweh apart from all the Egyptian deities and established His eternal nature. God further connected Himself to Israel's heritage by identifying as "the Lord, the God of your fathers…Abraham, Isaac and Jacob" (Ex 3:13-15). This reference to the three patriarchs resonated deeply with the Israelites, re-establishing God's credibility with a people whose devotion had diminished during 430 years in Egypt—first as honoured guests, later as oppressed slaves.
The Divine Name Revealed
The name "I AM" (Hebrew: Yahweh) signifies God's self-existence, eternity, and unchanging nature. Unlike the created gods of Egypt who had origins and limitations, the God of Israel exists outside of time and depends on nothing. This divine name appears throughout Scripture as a reminder of God's covenant faithfulness and His presence with His people. When Jesus later used this same designation, He was making an unmistakable claim to divinity that His Jewish audience would have immediately recognised.
Jesus boldly declared, "Before Abraham was born I AM" (Jn 8:58). This statement was revolutionary—He claimed not only pre-existence before Abraham but also applied God's sacred name to Himself. The religious leaders understood the magnitude of this claim, which is why they sought to stone Him for blasphemy. Jesus further expanded on His identity in the Gospel of John through seven profound "I am" statements that used familiar imagery to reveal spiritual truths about His relationship with humanity.
Which of the 'I am' statements speaks to me the most?
The Seven 'I Am' Statements
"I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in Me will never be thirsty" (Jn 6:35). Jesus presents Himself as the essential spiritual nourishment that satisfies our deepest hunger and provides lasting satisfaction. Ask yourself, where am I looking for satisfaction?
"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life" (Jn 8:12). As light dispels darkness and reveals reality, Jesus illuminates truth and guides us out of spiritual confusion into clarity and understanding. Ask yourself, what areas of my life need God's light?
"I am the gate for the sheep, whoever enters through Me will be saved" (Jn 10:7,9). Jesus portrays Himself as the only legitimate entry point into God's kingdom, providing protection and access to the Father. Ask yourself, have I entered through the right gate?
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep" (Jn 10:11). Unlike hired workers who flee when danger comes, Jesus demonstrates sacrificial love and committed care for those who belong to Him. Ask yourself, do I know the Shepherd's voice?
"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (Jn 11:25). Jesus conquers death itself, offering eternal life that transcends physical existence and promises hope beyond the grave. Ask yourself, what does resurrection mean to me?
"I am the way, and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (Jn 14:6). Jesus declares Himself as the exclusive path to God, the embodiment of truth, and the source of genuine life. Ask yourself, am I following the way?
"I am the true vine and My Father is the gardener" (Jn 15:1). This agricultural imagery illustrates our vital connection to Christ—apart from Him we can do nothing, but abiding in Him enables spiritual fruitfulness. Ask yourself, am I abiding in the vine?
Reflection and Application:
- Reflect on which "I am" statement resonates most deeply with your current season of life.
- Consider how Jesus' claim to divinity impacts your understanding of His authority.
- Examine areas where you may be seeking satisfaction apart from the "bread of life".
- Pray about what it means to abide in Christ as the "true vine".
See also: God, symbols.