To understand what Easter's all about, you need to know who Jesus is. So who is Jesus? Read his seven "I am" statements and find out what Jesus says about himself.
The 7 "I am" Statements of Jesus
In order to fully understand what Easter is all about, you need to understand who Jesus is. John was a close friend of Jesus and he wrote about Jesus’ life. John gave us seven famous “I am” statements that Jesus made about himself.
Those “I am” statements tell you about Jesus in Jesus’ own words. John’s Gospel provides stories and explanations that help us understand the “I am” statements that Jesus made.
"I am the bread of life"
"I am the light of the world"
"I am the door of the sheep"
"I am the good shepherd"
"I am the resurrection and the life"
"I am the way, the truth, and the life"
"I am the true vine"
Jesus said, “I am the bread of life.” In the gospel stories, Jesus miraculously provided physical, emotional and spiritual nourishment. Jesus cares about the whole person.
Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” Light provides energy; it overcomes darkness; it allows us to see clearly; its impact is expansive. Jesus offers his light to you.
Jesus said, “I am the door of the sheep.” Jesus is the door who enables you to enter into relationship with God.
Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd.” Like a shepherd, Jesus will guide, protect, and care for you.
Jesus made this next “I am” statement shortly before Easter. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Jesus offers life in place of death.
I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live John 11:25
Jesus made these last two statements on that final week leading to Easter -
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Jesus shows us the way to God’s presence and to a wonderful, eternal future. We can trust that what Jesus tells us is true. Life is not on loan to Jesus, but Jesus, like God the Father, is the fount of life.
Jesus said, “I am the true vine.” Jesus invites us to “abide" in him. Just like a branch can be fruitful when it's connected to a good vine, you can have a fruitful, meaningful life if you stay connected to Jesus.
Prepare for Easter - Pray! Jesus intercedes for us; we can go directly to God the Father with our gratitude and requests. Pray that He prepares your heart to receive His word.
Dear Father, Thank you for sending Jesus. Thank you that he offers us a fruitful, meaningful life. I pray that you will guide me as I reflect on who Jesus is. As I prepare to celebrate Easter, I pray that you will help me celebrate it with a greater understanding than I ever had before, and I pray that all seven of Jesus “I am” statements will become ever more real to me. Amen
Read God's Word and learn more
Follow along with the story of Jesus, read the gospels! All seven of Jesus' "I am" statements can be found in gospel of John.