In the Old Testament, God revealed His name to Moses: “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you’” (Exodus 3:14). Thus, in Judaism, “I AM” is unquestionably understood as a name for God. Whenever Jesus made an “I am” statement in which He claimed attributes of deity, He was identifying Himself as God

Then, centuries later, Jesus used the same name (I AM) in the Gospel of John to describe Himself when He said to the Samaritan woman “I…am He” (John 4:26), when he told His frightened disciples as He walked on the surface of the waters toward their boat in a storm “It is I” (John 6:20), and when He reaffirmed to His followers, “I am He” (John 13:19).

In using this expression, Jesus is explicitly identifying himself as God, and bearing God’s presence on Earth. Each of these seven “I am” statements follows a basic pattern. They are written as metaphors in which one of the key elements is to be Jesus expressed as “I am.” Jesus always provides an  explanatory statement with it, so there is no misunderstanding to its meaning and that it is clear to his listeners.

These metaphorical statements often complement Jesus’ miracles. The statement and a miracle contribute to the understanding of the other. Each of the miracles is interpreted by the metaphorical “I am” statement. Each statement is intended to give the miracle meaning for the ministry of Jesus. They show us that Jesus’ miracles were not just acts of power or mercy, but actions demonstrating the  meaning of his ministry and teaching.

Let’s Look at the seven metaphorical “I am” statements found in John’s gospel

“I am the bread of life” (John 6:35, 41, 48, 51).

Point: Jesus is sufficient because He meets our deepest needs. (Jehovah-‘Uzam – Lord Strength in Trouble)

READ John 6:25-40 (emphasis on 35)

In this chapter, Jesus establishes a pattern that continues through John’s gospel—Jesus makes a statement about who He is, and He backs it up with something He does. In this case, Jesus states that He is the bread of life just after He had fed the 5,000 in the wilderness. At the same time, He contrasts what He can do with what Moses had done for their ancestors: “Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, yet they died. But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which anyone may eat and not die” (verses 49–50).

The moment Jesus said “bread” his listeners would have been transported back thirteen hundred years into their national history. Each day, during a forty-year exile in the wilderness, God would provide bread from heaven to feed the Israelites. This heavenly bread was such a big deal that they made a point of celebrating it every year during the Passover meal.

Jesus pointed out in 6:26-27 that there are two kinds of food: food for the body, which is necessary but not the most important, and food for the inner man, the spirit, which is essential. Neither manna on the journey to the Promised Land in Moses’ time (Exodus 16:13-18) nor loaves in the Promised Land in Jesus’ time (John 6:1-15) could satisfy the core hunger which Jesus came to satisfy.

What the people needed was not food but life, and life is a gift. Jesus’ contrast was that food only sustains life, but Jesus gives eternal life.

Today, more than two thousand years after these words, we’re still starving. There is a hunger that lies within each of us and if we are not careful, we will look to be filled by something that could never satisfied. As with all hunger, what is quickest and easiest, may not be what is best. C.S. Lewis, in his book The Weight of Glory said, “We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered to us.” These three may not be what you pursue, but a short reflection on what you are most passionate about most likely will.

Jesus’ bold declaration “I am the bread of life” connects the miracle of the loaves and the fish, to the significance of his life purpose. Jesus is the “bread of life” as he nourishes people spiritually and satisfies the deep spiritual longings of their soul. In that sense, those who trust in him shall not hunger; their spiritual longing to know God will be satisfied.

Discussion Questions:

1: When was the last time you looked at something that you truly thought would satisfy and left you still wanting more?

2: Do you think that Jesus, the bread of life, can truly satisfy you? How?

3: If Jesus really does satisfy our hunger, why do we resist him?

Journal: What can you do today to make sure that you stay satisfied with Jesus?

“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12; 9:5).

Point: Jesus illuminates the devastation of our sin and our need for salvatio

READ John 8:2-20 (emphasis on verse 12)

This second of Jesus’ “I am” statements in John’s gospel comes right before He heals a man born blind. Jesus not only says He is the light; He proves it. Jesus’ words and actions echo Genesis 1:3, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”

By referring to himself as the light, Jesus is making a direct claim to being the Messiah (see Isaiah 9:2). The teachers of the law and others present in the temple court would not have mistaken the meaning of his words.

This is even more evident by the conversation that follows and the emphasis on the word “witness” (8:13, 17, 18). The use of witness, when in reference to light as it testifies of the sun, who Jesus himself just referred to himself as, is incredible. Light bears witness to itself. Every day when the sun rises, it tells you it is there. The only people who cannot see the light are those who are blind. If we return to the opening statements of the gospel of John, light and darkness were used as a contrast between belief and unbelief (1:9-13). Jesus was described as “the true light that gives light to everyone” (1:9). There were many who were able to see for the first time this day; and there were many who remained blind, no matter how bright the light.

To follow Jesus means to believe in and trust him, which leads to, as Jesus himself said, light and life. Those who follow Jesus are like travelers who follow the light in a dark night. You shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. The light shows what we could not see, and guides our every step.

We shall never be left alone as Jesus guides our way. Our part is to follow him, to submit ourselves to his guidance, and respond to his direction. It is not enough to look at his light, and to gaze upon it.

We must follow it, and walk in it; for it is a light to our feet, not only our eyes.

Discussion Questions:

1: What is the brightest light you have ever seen? What is the darkest dark  you have ever experienced? Take note of your emotions and  experience for both. How does this help you connect to Jesus’ statement?

2: What promises does Jesus give those who walk in the light?

3: In your relationship with God, what has Jesus shown you that has  most impacted the direction of your life? Where or what would you  be doing now if you didn’t have the clear direction that Jesus gives those who follow him?

Journal: Is there a specific area of life that you would like God to bring light to? Maybe an area that feels like it has been in darkness to God or to others? Is there something you have been keeping from others in hopes that it never comes to light? What is a step you can take to walk in the light?

“I am the door” (John 10:7 and 9, ESV).

Point: Jesus is the only way to heaven

READ: John 10:1-10 (emphasis on verses 7-10)

This “I am” statement stresses that no one can enter the kingdom of heaven by any other means than Christ Himself. Jesus’ words in this passage are couched in the imagery of a sheepfold. He is the one and only way to enter the fold. “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber” (verse 1, ESV).

The first statement, “I am the door” may seem strange, since it is the only inanimate object of all the “I am” sayings. As we reflect on the image of the door, and the verses that surround it, something profound, insightful and beautiful things happen.

For many shepherds, the sheepfold (where sheep slept overnight) was attached to their home. So, to enter the sheepfold was to come home. It would be hard to find a more powerful and contrasting analogy following an interaction for a man who was just kicked out by religious leaders. In keeping with light and darkness, the leaders were not able to understand the metaphor Jesus was sharing (10:6).

They continued to be blind by their actions and the people they impacted.

As “the door” Jesus made it explicitly clear, he is the only means of coming home to God. He is the only way one can become part of the people of God. There is no other way. When you go through “the door,” you are home, able to go “in and out” (10:9), where you find an abundant life, complete with fullness and freedom. What an incredible metaphor. Especially for a beggar who found himself alone and in need of a home.

Many of us spend our entire life searching for this. Either by choosing the wrong door, or when we find that what was promised is not what was delivered. Today, we can walk through the door that Jesus has opened to us. He not only gave his life for us, but gives his life to us right now!

Discussion Questions:

1: We have all taken the wrong door. Is there one that is most notable to you? How did going through this door impact your life? Does it  influence your perspective when Jesus says, “I am the door”?

2: Is your experience with Jesus an open door to opportunity and  life or a closed door of limitation, blocking you from what you  desire. Why?

3: Consider how a door is used. It gives access to something, provides  a way through a barrier and prevents danger from the outside. How have you experienced Jesus in this way?

Journal: Jesus invites us to share in his mission and purpose. If Jesus is the door, how can we open that door to those around us today? Odds are, as we seek the opportunity, one is provided to us. As God opens a door of opportunity for you, don’t miss the chance to open that door for someone else. It may be as simple as an invitation to a weekend service

“I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11, 14).

Point: Jesus is our provider and protector. Jehovah-Raah (Shepherd)

READ: John 10:11-21

With this “I am” statement, Jesus portrays His great love and care. He is the One who willingly protects His flock even to the point of death (verses 11 and 15). When Jesus called Himself the good shepherd, He unmistakably took for Himself one of God’s titles in the Old Testament: “The Lord is my shepherd” (Psalm 23:1).

For the Israelites, shepherds were integral to their origin as a nation and as the people of God (Psalm 23). As “shepherd” became synonymous with leadership, both political and spiritual, a reference

to a good shepherd would serve as a deliberate and scathing criticism to those in leadership who were failing those they served.

In Ezekiel 34, God reprimands the people he had appointed to be the spiritual protectors and guides for his people, exclaiming that they had only sought to care for themselves and had left the people of God vulnerable and unprotected. This statement resonated again as a beggar who was healed was thrown out by his protectors and guides

The word translated in English as “good”, in its original language means “intrinsically good, beautiful, fair.” Not only does Jesus claim that he will be a better guide and protector than those who came

before him, he is speaking against present leaders. Luke, a physician and historian who speaks about Jesus’ life, quoted Jesus saying: “ou load people down with burdens that they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them” (Luke 11:46).

Jesus is not only the door that welcomes us home to eternal life, but the one who leads (doesn’t push) us along the way. He gave his life as the greatest demonstration of his love. As those he loves, we are able to hear his voice and follow his leadership, knowing he is good. We are not asked to measure up to some impossible standard or earn his approval. He simply asks us to hear and follow, but that decision is ours to make. He will not force it upon us.

Discussion Questions:

1: Who are some people you have “followed” in the past?

2: How would you feel if the one who was supposed to protect you ran away when physical or spiritual trouble came? How would you feel if someone stepped in to protect and laid down their life for you?

3: Who would Jesus call thieves today? Why?

Journal: Make a list of all the characteristics of the shepherd that this passage referenced. What stands out? What are you drawn to? Go through your list one by one, seeking to recall times you have experienced these characteristics in your life. Which of the characteristics you listed are most important to you at this point in your life? Why?

“I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).

Point: Jesus is our guarantee of eternal life (Jehovah-Tsuri) Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord, we have an everlasting Rock.” (Isaiah 26:4)

READ: John 11:17-27

Jesus made this “I am” statement immediately before raising Lazarus from the dead. Again, we see that Jesus’ teaching was not just empty talk; when He made a claim, He substantiated it with action. He holds “the keys of death and the grave” (Revelation 1:18, NLT). In raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus showed how He can fulfill Yahweh’s promise to ancient Israel: “[God’s] dead shall live; their bodies shall rise” (Isaiah 26:19, ESV). Apart from Jesus, there is neither resurrection nor eternal life.

The resurrection of Lazarus is the only one of its kind, and is only recorded within the book of John. This spectacular moment points beyond the event itself.

The Christian idea of resurrection is different from Greek and Jewish ideas—the two primary cultural influences in Jesus’ time. The Greeks thought of the body as a hindrance to true life and they looked forward to the time when the soul would be free from its shackles. They firmly rejected the idea of resurrection (Acts 17:32). The Jewish people believed in resurrection, that the body would be raised from the dead at the end of time, but without transformation. Something Martha herself says to Jesus (11:24). At its simplest, resurrection is a return to life; life as it should be and was originally intended. Resurrection from the dead and genuine eternal life in relationship with God are so closely tied to Jesus that they are embodied in him and can only be found as we believe in him.

Jesus does not merely say that he will bring about the resurrection or that he will be the cause of the resurrection (both of which are true), but something much stronger: I am the resurrection and the life. Jesus says that he has the power lodged in his own hands, and that even the dead will respond to his voice. Jesus only has to say “Lazarus, come out!” and “the dead man came out” (11:43-44). This was not a future event, it was a present reality.

Resurrection can be a concept that we can appreciate from afar. We can know its importance and accept its reality, but never really given time to ponder and sit with it. As for the resurrection and the life, Jesus is always writing better stories than we could ever pen. Martha and Mary would soon find this to be true in the most dynamic way.

Discussion Questions:

1: What is your biggest fear when it comes to dying? How would you live  your life if you were invincible and knew that no matter what happens,  you would come back to life?

2: Is there an area of your life that you find it hard to (completely) trust  that Jesus understands and can make a difference? Why?

3: Do you believe that Jesus is the resurrection and the life? It is a question that has been carried throughout our study.

Journal: In a time of instant access, we are not built for delay. As followers of Jesus, this is especially true when it is God who does the delaying, as is the case with Lazarus (11:6). Rather than being healed of sickness, Lazarus was raised from the dead! Is there a greater miracle that God is working, a better story God is writing, as you wait? If it helps, write the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. In doing so, we share with Martha and Mary. May you see the better story God is writing as well.

“I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6).

Point: Jesus is the only true path to the Father. (Jehovah-Hoshe’ah – The Lord who saves.

READ John 14:1-14

This powerful “I am” statement of Christ’s is packed with meaning. Jesus is not merely one way among many ways to God; He is the only way. Scripture said that “The very essence of [God’s] words is truth” (Psalm 119:160, NLT), and here is Jesus proclaiming that He is the truth—confirming His identity as the Word of God (see John 1:1, 14). And Jesus alone is the source of life; He is the Creator and Sustainer of all life and the Giver of eternal life.

This section opens and closes with Jesus’ admonition, “Let not your heart be troubled” (John 14:1, 27). It’s not a surprise that Jesus’ friends were troubled. After all, Jesus had announced that He was going to die, one of them was a traitor and then he warned Peter that he was going to deny him three times.

Perhaps the heaviest blow of all was the realization that Jesus was going to leave them (John 13:33). Where was he going? Could they go with him? How could they get where he was going? These were some of the perplexing questions that tumbled around in their minds and hearts and were tossed back and forth in their conversation at the table.

In comforting his disciples, Jesus gives us an extraordinary summary of who he is and what he came from heaven to do on our behalf. In an incredibly concise way, it is able to encapsulate each of the “I am” statements that have come before it. Even though this verse is most often read at funerals, present relationship, comfort and security with Jesus is being emphasized more than the future. Jesus is preparing us for life long before we face death.

Jesus does not simply teach the way or point the way; he is the way. In fact, “The Way” was one of the earliest names for the Christian faith (Acts 9:2). Who better to show us the way and welcome us home than The Way himself? He is not one version of the truth; Jesus is the truth.

Discussion Questions:

1: What are the things that rob you of peace?

2: What are the different views about Jesus? How do they line up with what Jesus has said about himself?

3: These claims seem so absolute. What is the implication to our life if we took them seriously and lived them out

Journal: Take a short walk. As you walk, try to stay on the path/sidewalk the entire time. Ask yourself the following: What does this path/sidewalk provide for me? What does this sidewalk keep me from experiencing? Am I experiencing this path/sidewalk as negative and restrictive or as good and helpful? How does your experience on your walk mirror your experience of walking in The Way of Jesus? How does it differ?

“I am the true vine” (John 15:1, 5).

Point: Jesus is the source of life and its fruitfulness (Jehovah – Jireh) provider/protector.

READ: John 15:1-8

The final metaphorical “I am” statement in the Gospel of John emphasizes the sustaining power of Christ. We are the branches, and He is the vine. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit unless it is joined in vital union with the vine, only those who are joined to Christ and receive their power from Him produce fruit in the Christian life.

With this one phrase Jesus presents an extended metaphor (15:1-8) and explains it (15:9-17), which lies at the very heart of the Farewell Discourse (13:31-16:33)—the last words of Jesus to his friends.

The cultivation of vineyards was central to the life and economy of Israel. Apart from their use in wine, grapes played an equally important role in the Palestinian diet. As we have seen from the other “I am” statements, Jesus was not introducing something new; it was familiar to every listener. The centrality of vineyards to Jewish life is a comparison of Jesus’ centrality in our lives. He is the center of our faith—the source of our life.

The symbolism of the vine and branches is similar to that of the head and the body; we have a living relationship with Jesus and belong to him. We are unable to live on substitutes! If Jesus is the true vine, the implication is that there are false vines that we can, or may be, connected to and continue in. As the true vine, Jesus encourages us to “live, remain and make your home in me.” This invites us to having an ongoing, active connection to Jesus.

In the same way a vineyard is able to produce the finest quality fruit as it is cared for and tended, we too are able to produce “fruit” that reflects our connection to Jesus (Galatians 5:22-23). We become even more like him.

Discussion Questions:

1: What do you do to maintain important relationships in your life? Is this  transferrable in how you maintain your relationship with Jesus?

2: What are the practices you put into your life that help you maintain your connection to Jesus? Which spiritual disciplines from this study will you add?

3: Purging is trending in homes around the country, as people are finding areas of excess and intentionally limiting themselves. With  the metaphor of the vine, this would be considered pruning. How can you prune your life to bring more focus and clarity, especially as it relates to knowing Jesus?

Journal: How were you able to draw strength from Jesus today? Were you able to create an active dependence on Jesus by staying connected to him? What helped you? What hindered you? In light of these responses, what can be different tomorrow? Make a commitment to take one step toward that being true.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

#1 “I am the bread of life.” – Jesus

1: When was the last time you looked at something that you truly thought would satisfy and left you still wanting more?

2: Do you think that Jesus, the bread of life, can truly satisfy you? How?

3: If Jesus really does satisfy our hunger, why do we resist him?

#2 “I am the light of the world.” – Jesus

1: What is the brightest light you have ever seen? What is the darkest dark  you have ever experienced? Take note of your emotions and  experience for both. How does this help you connect to Jesus’ statement?

2: What promises does Jesus give those who walk in the light?

3: In your relationship with God, what has Jesus shown you that has  most impacted the direction of your life? Where or what would you  be doing now if you didn’t have the clear direction that Jesus gives those who follow him

#3 “I am the door.” – Jesus

1: We have all taken the wrong door. Is there one that is most notable to you? How did going through this door impact your life? Does it  influence your perspective when Jesus says, “I am the door”?

2: Is your experience with Jesus an open door to opportunity and  life or a closed door of limitation, blocking you from what you  desire. Why?

3: Consider how a door is used. It gives access to something, provides  a way through a barrier and prevents danger from the outside. How have you experienced Jesus in this way?

#4 “I am the good shepherd.” – Jesus

1: Who are some people you have “followed” in the past?

2: How would you feel if the one who was supposed to protect you ran away when physical or spiritual trouble came? How would you feel if someone stepped in to protect and laid down their life for you?

3: Who would Jesus call thieves today? Why?

#5 “I am the resurrection and the life.” – Jesus

1: What is your biggest fear when it comes to dying? How would you live  your life if you were invincible and knew that no matter what happens,  you would come back to life?

2: Is there an area of your life that you find it hard to (completely) trust  that Jesus understands and can make a difference? Why?

3: Do you believe that Jesus is the resurrection and the life? It is a question that has been carried throughout our study.

#6 “I am the way and the truth and the life.” – Jesus

1: What are the things that rob you of peace?

2: What are the different views about Jesus? How do they line up with what Jesus has said about himself?

3: These claims seem so absolute. What is the implication to our life if we took them seriously and lived them out?

#7 “I am the true vine.” – Jesus

1: What do you do to maintain important relationships in your life? Is this  transferrable in how you maintain your relationship with Jesus?

2: What are the practices you put into your life that help you maintain your connection to Jesus? Which spiritual disciplines from this study will you add?

3: Purging is trending in homes around the country, as people are finding areas of excess and intentionally limiting themselves. With  the metaphor of the vine, this would be considered pruning. How can you prune your life to bring more focus and clarity, especially as  it relates to knowing Jesus?

Journal REFLECTION Questions

What can you do today to make sure that you stay satisfied with Jesus?

Is there a specific area of life that you would like God to bring light to? Maybe an area that feels like it has been in darkness to God or to others? Is there something you have been keeping from others in hopes that it never comes to light? What is a step you can take to walk in the light?

Jesus invites us to share in his mission and purpose. If Jesus is the door, how can we open that door to those around us today? Odds are, as we seek the opportunity, one is provided to us. As God opens a door of opportunity for you, don’t miss the chance to open that door for someone else. It may be as simple as an invitation to a weekend service.

Make a list of all the characteristics of the shepherd that this passage referenced. What stands out? What are you drawn to? Go through your list one by one, seeking to recall times you have experienced these characteristics in your life. Which of the characteristics you listed are most important to you at this point in your life? Why?

In a time of instant access, we are not built for delay. As followers of Jesus, this is especially true when it is God who does the delaying, as is the case with Lazarus (11:6). Rather than being healed of sickness, Lazarus was raised from the dead! Is there a greater miracle that God is working, a better story God is writing, as you wait? If it helps, write the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. In doing so, we share with Martha and Mary. May you see the better story God is writing as well.

Take a short walk. As you walk, try to stay on the path/sidewalk the entire time. Ask yourself the following: What does this path/sidewalk provide for me? What does this sidewalk keep me from experiencing? Am I experiencing this path/sidewalk as negative and restrictive or as good and helpful? How does your experience on your walk mirror your experience of walking in The Way of Jesus? How does it differ?

How were you able to draw strength from Jesus today? Were you able to create an active dependence on Jesus by staying connected to him? What helped you? What hindered you? In light of these responses, what can be different tomorrow? Make a commitment to take one step toward that being true.

Hesham Shehab: WalCamp Presentation – Jan. 7, 2023

John Ross

John Ross on Saturday, April 23, 2016 launched XPian News, a part of  Daybreak Communications, Inc. Ross is the facilitator of Aurora Christian Ministry Network (ACMN) and a member of the Fox Valley Christian Ministerial Alliance (FVCMA). He serves on the boards of Wayside Cross Ministries and the Kiwanis Club of Aurora. As a follower of Jesus, he has been for some 40 years a member of First Presbyterian Church - Aurora. He has an M.A. - Christian Leadership from Wheaton College Graduate School and undergraduate at Trinity International University.  editor@xpian.news