I AM JesusНамуна

“I AM, I AM.”

Before we dive into the “I AM” statements of Jesus there’s one more piece of context worth noting. Bear with me, I think it will be worth it!

In Greek, there are two words used to refer to oneself. The first is "ego," meaning "about me." We use it the same way in English, "That person has an ego," or, “they are about themselves.” The second is "eimi," also meaning "about me." In all seven of Jesus' statements He defines Himself by saying, "Ego Eimi," I AM, I AM. Think for a second – where have we heard that before? That's right, in Exodus 3:14 God uses the double-up to declare He is the "I AM, I AM." The Greek translation of this Hebrew double-name God attributes to Himself is, "Ego Eimi." In other words, Jesus isn't merely declaring He is the bread of life. He's saying, "I AM GOD, and I am the bread of life." The Jews and Gentiles alike knew exactly what He was saying, which is why they opted to kill Him because of His perceived blasphemy.

My uncle owns a construction company. I needed a job, so my dad suggested I call his office and ask him for one! When the receptionist answered, I asked to speak to my uncle. She asked for my name, and I said, “Luke.” She placed me on a brief hold then came back on the line and said, “He’s busy right now but we’ll have someone reach out to you.” When I shared the news with my dad, he said, “Son, call back and tell them who you are.” So I did. Repeating the same formalities, she asked again, “Can I have your name so I can tell him who’s calling?” When I said, “Luke Cunningham” it wasn’t seconds before I heard my uncle's voice on the other line. One name meant nothing, but both names meant everything.

In each of Jesus' "I AM, I AM" statements He is defining Himself, as God, and the fulfillment of all they've awaited or experienced in Jewish history. Not once do the disciples, Jews, Gentiles, or a crowd of all three understand what Jesus is saying. At best, they reply, "We're not sure what He means." At worst, they plot to kill Him. Nonetheless, in all their doubt and disbelief, plans to kill Him and efforts to stop Him, Jesus triumphed over death, rose to life, and boldly displayed Himself as the “I AM I AM.”