I am

February 13, 2007

By Gary Rogers

One of the studies I love to revisit is the “I am” statements of Jesus found in John. There were specific times Jesus referred to himself with “I am,” which is followed by a tremendous insight into His identity and work.

In Exodus 3:14, when Moses asked God about His name, the answer was “I AM WHO I AM. … Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you’ ” (NKJV). This was God pointing to both His existence and sovereignty. There is no need for more specifics in detailing who He is. He needs no introduction. He is God! He is the One who always has been and always will be.

Jesus’ “I am” statements fulfill one of the purposes of His coming — He gave us a clearer picture of God.

1. John 6:35 – “I am the bread of life.”

2. John 8:12 – “I am the light of the world.”

3. John 10:7 – “I am the door of the sheep.”

4. John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd.”

5. John 11:25 – “I am the resurrection and the life.”

6. John 14:6 – “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

7. John 15:1 – “I am the true vine.”

• Jesus is the bread of life who gives us the elements necessary to take us from a life devastated with sin to a life filled with forgiveness and hope.

• Jesus is the light who leads us out of the darkness of this world and directs us to a life of obedience, holiness and purity in Him.

• Jesus is the door by which we enter into a personal relationship with God and are permitted to enter into His boundless and unspeakable blessings.

• Jesus is the good shepherd who cares for, protects and provides for His sheep.

• Jesus arose from the dead, and in His resurrection He made a way for us to have life after death.

• Jesus is the only way to the Father.

• Jesus is the truth, free from lies and distortion.

• Jesus is the life-giver and prince of life. He can take any person from mere existence to abundant living.

• Jesus is the vine connection to God. There is no way to be connected to God without Jesus, the true vine.

The focus of our belief goes to Jesus. As believers we must continue to magnify Jesus. We can’t allow any influence or persuasion to minimize Jesus and His importance in our lives.

Gary Rogers is senior pastor of First Assembly of God in Coweta, Okla.