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The Seven “I Am’s” of Jesus

Introduction:

The term “I Am” is a significant phrase that is used throughout the Bible to describe God’s nature and character. It is a name that is given to God himself, and it represents his eternal and unchanging nature. In the New Testament, Jesus also uses this phrase to describe himself, and his use of this term reveals the depth and significance of his identity as the Son of God.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus uses the phrase “I Am” to describe himself in several significant ways. For example, he says, “I Am the bread of life” (John 6:35), “I Am the light of the world” (John 8:12), “I Am the door” (John 10:9), and “I Am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). Each of these statements reveals something unique and powerful about who Jesus is and what he came to do.

Each of these “I Am” statements reveals a unique aspect of Jesus’ identity as the Son of God. He is the one who sustains us, illuminates our hearts and minds, opens the way to eternal life, and conquers death itself. His use of the phrase “I Am” emphasizes his eternal nature and his unchanging character. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and his promises and his love for us remain constant and true.

As we reflect on Jesus’ use of the phrase “I Am,” we are reminded of the depth and significance of his identity as the Son of God. He is not just a great teacher or a moral example; he is the very embodiment of God’s love and grace. He is the one who came to save us, to offer us forgiveness and new life, and to lead us into the fullness of God’s plan for our lives.

May we take comfort in the truth of Jesus’ identity and rest in the knowledge that he is the one who sustains us, illuminates our hearts and minds, opens the way to eternal life, and conquers death itself. May we trust in his promises and follow him obediently, knowing that he is the source of true life and that he will guide us every step of the way. May we worship him as the true Son of God and give him all the glory and honor that he deserves.

I Am The Bread of Life

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will not be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35

This statement by Jesus is profound and speaks to the deep needs of our soul.

In the Old Testament, bread was often used as a symbol of sustenance and provision. It represented the physical needs of the people. In the New Testament, Jesus uses this same symbol but elevates it to a spiritual level. He declares himself as the bread of life, the source of spiritual sustenance and provision.

Jesus offers us something that this world cannot provide – a solution to our spiritual hunger and thirst. We often try to satisfy our spiritual hunger with things that do not satisfy. We seek approval, success, material possessions, and relationships, hoping that they will fill the void in our souls. However, they are unable to satisfy the deep longing we have for meaning and purpose.

Only Jesus can satisfy our spiritual hunger and thirst. When we come to Him, we are filled with the life-giving nourishment that our souls crave. Our spiritual needs are met, and we are sustained by His grace.

As we reflect on John 6:35, there are three questions we can ask ourselves:

What are we using to satisfy our spiritual hunger and thirst? Are we seeking fulfillment in temporary things that do not satisfy, or are we turning to Jesus, who is the source of true satisfaction?
How can we come to Jesus and receive the bread of life? Coming to Jesus requires surrender and faith. It means acknowledging our need for Him and trusting that He is the only one who can provide what we need. We come to Jesus by spending time in prayer and reading the Bible, seeking His presence and guidance in our lives.
How can we share the bread of life with others? Just as Jesus offers us the bread of life, we can share this same message of hope with others. We can be a source of encouragement and support for those who are struggling with spiritual hunger and thirst. We can share the good news of Jesus with others, pointing them to the only source of true satisfaction.

In John 6:35, Jesus invites us to come to Him, to find nourishment for our souls. He is the bread of life that satisfies our deepest longings and needs. Let us turn to Him, trusting that He will provide for us, sustain us, and satisfy us.

Prayer:

Dear God, we come to you today, acknowledging our need for you. We confess that we have sought satisfaction in things that do not satisfy. Help us to turn to you, to trust in you as the only source of true satisfaction. Fill us with your life-giving nourishment and sustain us by your grace. Help us to share your message of hope with others, pointing them to the bread of life that only you can provide. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Questions:

What are some things that you have tried to use to satisfy your spiritual hunger and thirst? How have they fallen short?
What steps can you take to come to Jesus and receive the bread of life? How can you deepen your relationship with Him?
How can you share the bread of life with others? Who in your life needs to hear the message of hope that only Jesus can provide?

I Am The Light of the World

Again, therefore, Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12

This statement by Jesus is powerful and illuminates our path in life.

The image of light is one that is used throughout the Bible to symbolize God’s presence and guidance. Just as light illuminates our path in the physical world, so too does the light of Christ illuminate our spiritual path.

Jesus offers us the light of life, the light that guides us through the darkness of this world. When we follow Jesus, we never have to walk alone in the darkness. He is with us, guiding us, and illuminating our path.

As we reflect on John 8:12, there are three questions we can ask ourselves:

Are we following Jesus? Jesus promises that whoever follows Him will never walk in darkness. Following Jesus means surrendering our lives to Him, trusting Him to guide us through life. Are we living a life that is surrendered to Jesus, or are we trying to navigate through life on our own?
How does the light of Christ guide us? The light of Christ guides us through His Word, the Bible. It illuminates the truth and shows us the way to live our lives. When we read the Bible, we are enlightened by the wisdom and truth it contains. How often are we reading and meditating on the Bible?
How can we share the light of Christ with others? We are called to be a light to the world, reflecting the light of Christ to those around us. We can do this by living a life that is surrendered to Jesus, by sharing His love with others, and by pointing others to the truth of the Gospel.

In John 8:12, Jesus promises us the light of life, the light that guides us through the darkness. Let us turn to Him, following His lead, and allowing His light to shine brightly in our lives.

Prayer:

Dear God, we come to you today, asking for your guidance and illumination. We thank you for the promise of the light of life that Jesus offers us. Help us to follow Him, to surrender our lives to Him, and to trust Him to guide us through the darkness of this world. Show us how to reflect the light of Christ to those around us, to share His love and truth with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Questions:

Are you following Jesus? What are some areas of your life that you need to surrender to Him in order to walk in the light?
How does the light of Christ guide you? How often are you reading and meditating on the Bible, allowing His truth to illuminate your path?
How can you share the light of Christ with others? Who in your life needs to hear the message of hope and love that Jesus offers? What steps can you take to be a light to the world?

I Am The Door – of the sheep

Jesus therefore said to them again, “Most certainly, I tell you, I am the sheep’s door. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep didn’t listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters in by me, he will be saved, and will go in and go out, and will find pasture. John 10:7-9

Jesus often spoke in metaphors and used analogies to convey important messages to his followers. In this passage, Jesus refers to himself as the door of the sheep, explaining that those who enter through him will be saved and find pasture. This powerful analogy has profound implications for our spiritual lives.

First, Jesus is the only door. In the passage, Jesus contrasts himself with thieves and robbers who try to enter the sheep pen by climbing over the walls. Jesus explains that these individuals do not have the best interests of the sheep in mind and are not authorized to enter the pen. However, Jesus himself is the door, and those who enter through him will be saved.

This message is clear – there is only one way to salvation, and that way is through Jesus. It’s easy to become distracted by other paths, ideologies, or beliefs that claim to offer spiritual fulfillment or enlightenment. However, Jesus reminds us that these paths are false and ultimately lead to destruction. We must remain focused on the truth of the gospel and continually seek to enter through the door of the sheep.

Second, those who enter through Jesus will be saved. The passage emphasizes that those who enter through the door of the sheep will be saved and find pasture. This message offers comfort and hope to believers, reminding us that our salvation is secure in Christ. It’s easy to become anxious or fearful about our spiritual standing, especially when we fall short or make mistakes. However, Jesus promises that those who enter through him will be saved and find abundance in life.

Third, entering through Jesus enables us to go in and out and find pasture. This message is significant because it highlights the freedom and abundance that come with following Christ. When we enter through Jesus, we are not confined or restricted – we are free to go in and out and find pasture. This message reminds us that following Christ is not about restriction or limitation, but rather about abundant life and freedom.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for being the gate that leads us to salvation and eternal life. Help us to follow you and find security in your protection. Give us the courage to recognize your voice and the wisdom to discern your will. Thank you for the abundant life that you offer to all who believe in you. We trust in your guidance and love, and pray that you will continue to lead us on the path to righteousness. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

What are some false paths or ideologies that I have been tempted to follow? How can I remind myself to focus on the truth of the gospel and enter through the door of the sheep?
How does the promise of salvation through Jesus bring comfort and hope to my life? In what ways can I rely on this promise more fully?
How have I experienced the freedom and abundance that come with following Christ? What are some areas where I still struggle to live in this freedom? How can I seek to go in and out and find pasture in those areas?

As we reflect on these questions, may we be reminded of the truth and power of Jesus’ message. He is the door of the sheep, and those who enter through him will be saved and find abundant life. May we continually seek to enter through the door of the sheep and experience the freedom and abundance that come with following Christ.

I Am The Resurrection and the Life

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will still live,
even if he dies. John 11:25

This passage is a profound statement of Jesus’ power and purpose. He claims to be the resurrection and the life, promising eternal life to those who believe in him. As we reflect on this passage, there are several important truths that we can take away.

First, Jesus has power over death. In this passage, Jesus speaks to Martha after her brother Lazarus has died. Martha is grieving and struggling to make sense of her loss, but Jesus reminds her that he has power over death. He promises that even though Lazarus has died, he will live again.

This message is incredibly powerful because it reminds us that death is not the end. Jesus has conquered death and promises eternal life to those who believe in him. This truth brings comfort and hope to believers, especially in times of loss or grief. It reminds us that our loved ones who have passed away are not truly gone, but are with Christ in eternity.

Second, Jesus offers eternal life to those who believe in him. In this passage, Jesus doesn’t just promise to raise Lazarus from the dead – he promises eternal life to all who believe in him. This promise is available to all who put their faith in Christ, regardless of their circumstances or past mistakes.

This message is significant because it offers hope and purpose to our lives. We can live with confidence and joy, knowing that we have eternal life in Christ. This promise also motivates us to share the gospel with others, so that they too can experience the joy and hope of eternal life.

Third, Jesus is the source of life. In this passage, Jesus doesn’t just promise eternal life – he claims to be the source of life itself. He says, “I am the resurrection and the life.” This statement is a powerful reminder that true life and fulfillment can only be found in Christ.

This message is significant because it challenges us to evaluate our priorities and values. Are we seeking life and fulfillment in things that ultimately lead to emptiness and disappointment, or are we seeking Christ, who is the true source of life? As we seek to follow Christ, we can trust that he will provide us with the abundant life that we desire.

Prayer:

Dear God, we thank you for the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Help us to believe in him and trust in his power over death. In times of grief and loss, comfort us with the knowledge that death is not the end, but that we have hope and joy in the resurrection. We pray that you will help us to share this message of hope with others, so that they too may experience the power and purpose of Christ in their lives. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

How does the promise of eternal life through Christ bring comfort and hope to my life? In what ways can I rely on this promise more fully?
In what areas of my life am I seeking fulfillment and satisfaction apart from Christ? How can I refocus my priorities and seek Christ as the true source of life?
How can I share the hope and promise of eternal life with others? In what ways can I be a witness to the power and purpose of Christ in my life?

As we reflect on these questions, may we be reminded of the truth and power of Jesus’ message. He is the resurrection and the life, and those who believe in him will live, even though they die. May we continually seek to follow Christ and experience the abundant life that he promises to all who believe in him.

I Am The Good Shepherd

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who doesn’t own the sheep, sees the wolf coming, leaves the sheep, and flees. The wolf snatches the sheep, and scatters them. The hired hand flees because he is a hired hand, and doesn’t care for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and I’m known by my own; even as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. I lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:11-15

In this passage, Jesus refers to himself as the good shepherd, and describes his care and protection for his sheep. As we reflect on this passage, there are several important truths that we can take away.

First, Jesus is the ultimate example of sacrificial love. In this passage, Jesus describes the difference between a hired hand and a true shepherd. A hired hand cares nothing for the sheep and will flee when danger comes, while a true shepherd will lay down his life to protect his sheep.

Jesus uses this metaphor to describe his own love and care for his followers. He is willing to lay down his life for them, and he ultimately did so on the cross. This message is a powerful reminder of the depth and sacrifice of Jesus’ love for us.

Second, Jesus knows and loves each of his followers individually. In this passage, Jesus says, “I know my own and my own know me.” This message is significant because it emphasizes the personal and intimate relationship that Jesus desires to have with each of his followers.

As we follow Jesus, we can trust that he knows us deeply and cares for us personally. This message also challenges us to deepen our own relationship with Christ and seek to know him more intimately.

Third, Jesus’ care and protection for his followers is a source of comfort and security. In this passage, Jesus compares himself to a shepherd who protects his sheep from danger. This message is significant because it reminds us that we can trust in Jesus’ care and protection in all circumstances.

As we face challenges and difficulties in our lives, we can turn to Jesus as our good shepherd, knowing that he is with us and watching over us. This message also motivates us to trust in Jesus’ guidance and follow him obediently.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we thank you for being our good shepherd who lays down his life for us. Help us to understand and appreciate the depth of your sacrificial love for us, and to trust in your care and protection in all circumstances. May we seek to deepen our relationship with you and follow you obediently, knowing that you know and love us personally. We pray for your guidance and wisdom, and ask that you continue to lead us on the path of righteousness. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

In what ways have I experienced the sacrificial love of Jesus in my life? How can I grow in my understanding and appreciation of his love?
How can I deepen my relationship with Jesus and seek to know him more intimately? What steps can I take to make this a priority in my life?
In what areas of my life do I struggle to trust in Jesus’ care and protection? How can I turn to him more fully in these areas and seek his guidance?

As we reflect on these questions, may we be reminded of the truth and power of Jesus’ message. He is the good shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep, and he knows and loves each of his followers deeply and personally. May we trust in his care and protection, and seek to follow him obediently all the days of our lives.

I Am The Way, the Truth, the Life

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me. John 14:6

In this powerful statement, Jesus declares himself to be the only way to God. As we reflect on this passage, there are several important truths that we can take away.

First, Jesus is the way to God. In this passage, Jesus emphasizes that he is the only way to the Father. This message is significant because it reminds us that there is no other path to salvation or eternal life.

As we follow Jesus, we can trust that he is leading us on the path to righteousness and eternal life. This message also challenges us to share the message of Jesus’ love and salvation with others, so that they too may find the way to God.

Second, Jesus is the truth. In this passage, Jesus declares himself to be the truth. This message is significant because it emphasizes the importance of truth in our lives.

As we follow Jesus, we can trust in his truth and his teachings, knowing that they are rooted in love and wisdom. This message also challenges us to seek truth in all areas of our lives, and to reject falsehood and deception.

Third, Jesus is the source of life. In this passage, Jesus declares himself to be the life. This message is significant because it reminds us that Jesus is the source of all life and that we can find true life in him.

As we follow Jesus, we can trust that he is leading us towards a life that is abundant and fulfilling. This message also challenges us to prioritize our relationship with Jesus above all else, knowing that he is the source of true life and joy.

Prayer:

Dear God, we thank you for your Son Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life. We ask that you help us to follow him obediently, knowing that he is the only way to salvation and eternal life. May we seek to deepen our relationship with him, and to trust in his guidance and wisdom as we navigate the challenges of life. May we be bold in sharing his message of love and salvation with others, so that they too may find the way to you. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

How has Jesus been the way to God in my own life? How have I experienced his guidance and leading on the path to righteousness?
How have I experienced the truth of Jesus in my own life? In what ways have his teachings and wisdom impacted my understanding of the world and my place in it?
In what ways have I experienced the life of Jesus in my own life? How have I found joy and fulfillment in my relationship with him?

As we reflect on these questions, may we be reminded of the truth and power of Jesus’ message. He is the way, the truth, and the life, and we can trust in him to lead us towards a life that is abundant and fulfilling. May we seek to follow him obediently, knowing that he is the source of all truth, love, and life.

I Am The True Vine

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the farmer. Every branch in me that doesn’t bear fruit, he takes away. Every branch that bears fruit, he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already pruned clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I in you. As the branch can’t bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you, unless you remain in me. I am the vine. You are the branches. He who remains in me and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:1-5

In this passage, Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and branches to illustrate the importance of abiding in him. As we reflect on this passage, there are several important truths that we can take away.

First, Jesus is the true vine. In this passage, Jesus declares himself to be the true vine. This message is significant because it emphasizes the exclusivity of Jesus as the source of true life and salvation.

As we abide in Jesus, we can trust that we are connected to the source of all life and that he is leading us towards a life that is abundant and fulfilling. This message also challenges us to prioritize our relationship with Jesus above all else, knowing that he is the source of true life and joy.

Second, God is the gardener. In this passage, Jesus emphasizes that God is the gardener who cuts off every branch that bears no fruit and prunes every branch that does bear fruit so that it will be even more fruitful. This message is significant because it reminds us that God is actively involved in our spiritual growth and development.

As we abide in Jesus, we can trust that God is working in our lives to help us bear fruit and become more like Jesus. This message also challenges us to surrender to God’s pruning, knowing that it is ultimately for our good and will lead to greater fruitfulness in our lives.

Third, we must remain in Jesus. In this passage, Jesus emphasizes the importance of remaining in him. He reminds us that no branch can bear fruit by itself, and that we must remain in the vine to bear much fruit.

As we abide in Jesus, we can trust that he is working in our lives to produce fruit that will bring glory to God. This message also challenges us to examine our own lives and ask ourselves if we are truly abiding in Jesus, or if we are trying to bear fruit in our own strength.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we thank you for the truth and power of your word. We ask that you help us to remain in you, the true vine, and to trust in your guidance and wisdom as we seek to bear fruit that brings glory to you. May we surrender to your pruning, even when it is difficult, knowing that it is for our good and will lead to greater fruitfulness. May our lives be a reflection of your love and grace, and may we abide in you obediently all the days of our lives. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

How am I abiding in Jesus? In what ways am I prioritizing my relationship with him and seeking to remain connected to the true vine?
In what areas of my life do I need to surrender to God’s pruning? How can I trust God’s pruning, even when it is difficult or painful?
What fruit is God producing in my life? How can I continue to bear fruit that brings glory to God and reflects his love and grace to others?

As we reflect on these questions, may we be reminded of the truth and power of Jesus’ message. He is the true vine, and we must remain in him to bear much fruit. May we seek to abide in him obediently, trusting in his guidance and wisdom as we navigate the challenges of life. May we surrender to God’s pruning, knowing that it is ultimately for our good and will lead to greater fruitfulness in our lives. And may we bear fruit that brings glory to God and reflects his love and grace to the world around us.

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