April 3, 2004

THE I AM

"Jesus said to them, 'Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM' " (John 8:58, NKJV).

This self-designation of Jesus is one of the most sublime titles by which He is known. In responding to His critics, Christ boldly asserted His divine pre-existence by declaring, "Before Abraham was, I AM." Whereas Abraham came into existence at a point in time, Christ has always been and will always be. He is "the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8, NKJV).

In His incarnation, Christ repeatedly reminded His hearers of His "I AM" status in creation and redemption. In John's Gospel alone His "I AM" title is referred to more than nine times. He declared, "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35). "I am the resurrection, and the life" (John 11:25). "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12). Throughout the New Testament, Jesus is depicted as the great unchangeable, self-existing I AM who is Creator, Redeemer, and soon-coming King. All names and titles soon retire and recede, but the I AM abides forever.

The wonder of it all is that the eternal I AM came to identify fully with the human family. "It was Christ who from the [burning] bush on Mount Horeb spoke to Moses saying, 'I AM THAT I AM'...(Exodus 3:14). This was the pledge of Israel's deliverance, So when He came 'in the likeness of [sinful] men,' He declared Himself the I AM. The Child of Bethlehem, the meek and lowly Saviour, is God 'manifest in the flesh' (1 Timothy 3:16). And to us He says: 'I AM the Good Shepherd.' 'I AM the Living Bread.'... I AM the assurance of every promise. I AM; be not afraid. 'God with us' is the surety of our deliverance."--The Desire of Ages. pp. 24, 25.

My Prayer Today: Lord, I never cease to be amazed that You condescended to identify with me. Amen.