Daily Devotion Seven “I Am” Sayings
1 Apr 2009
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. John 10:11
Unique to the Gospel of John, there are seven “I am” pronouncements Jesus made to describe who He really is as our Savior. Here is the list:
(1) I am the bread of life (John 6:35). This is the first of the seven “I am” sayings of Jesus. There is an unmistakable parallel to God’s covenant name-Yahweh-by which He revealed Himself to Moses in Exodus 3:14, “I AM WHO I AM.” Jesus made the pronouncement “I am the bread of life” three times (6:35, 48, 51). He is the real heavenly bread, the true life sustaining power. Anything else is an inadequate substitute.
(2) I am the light of the world (8:12). The world is in darkness apart from Christ. And as a follower of Jesus reflecting the light that comes from Him, you too are “the light to the world.”
(3) I am the gate for the sheep (10:7-9). The imagery contrasts Jesus’ protection of the sheep in the fold with all other false prophets past and present. Entering the sheepfold through Jesus is a saving action and provides the sheep with abundant life and provision.
(4) I am the good shepherd (10:11-14). The good shepherd is genuinely concerned for his sheep. He gives His life for His sheep. But to a hireling, his only interest is self-preservation.
(5) I am the resurrection and the life (11:25). More than giving resurrection and life, Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Final death is impossible with Him. Death will never triumph over those who believe in Him.
(6) I am the way and the truth and the life (14:6). Jesus is not one way among many, He is the only way to the Father. He is the truth about God and the very life of God. As such, He reveals truth to you and gives life to you.
(7) I am the true vine (15:1, 5). This seventh “I am” is the last self-designation in John’s Gospel. It describes the relationship between Jesus and His disciples. When you abide in Christ—the true vine—your prayers will be effective (15:7); you will glorify God in your fruit bearing (15:8); you will demonstrate your discipleship (15:8-10); and your joy becomes full through experiencing Christ’s own joy within you (15:11). Invite Jesus to become the “I am” of your life, your every moment, as He fills you with His presence.
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