The Path of Totality: I Am STUDY GUIDE

Icebreaker: Without using the descriptives Savior or Christ, how would you describe Jesus in 1 to 4 words?

Sermon Title: The Path of Totality – “I Am” – John 8:58

Group Discussion:

“I am the bread of life” (John 6:35)
“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12)
“I am the gate for the sheep” (John 10:7)
“I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11)
“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 true vine” (John 15:1)

These are Identity words for Jesus: Jesus used common life staples and daily necessities that the people were well familiar with as metaphors to describe Himself. What significance do you see in Jesus’ use of these “I am” statements as recorded by the Apostle John?

Which “I am” statement resonates with you the most, and why? How can these statements help us achieve a true understanding of King Jesus’ identity in our own lives 2000 years later? How are they relevant today?

Read Acts 4:12 – Denial words for pretenders. Consider the hazards of chasing the wrong highs, searching for the wrong treasure, trusting the wrong voices, or building on the wrong foundation. How do you think Jesus’ “I am” statements might challenge existing contemporary beliefs that there are many paths to truth, Heaven, and God? How can we share, with love and compassion, the superiority and truth of Jesus as “the way and the truth and the life,” especially to people who are unfamiliar with a biblical worldview?

Read John 6:68-69 – Life words for us. How do these statements by Peter speak to the idea of commitment and loyalty in your own faith journey? Can you share instances in your life where your commitment to following Jesus was tested? What are some practical strategies for how we can respond in such instances and experience victory in Jesus?

Spiritual Discipline:

Practice memorizing Jesus’ “I am” statements found in: John 6:35 – John 8:12 – John 10:7 – John 10:11 – John 11:25 – John 14:6 – John 15:1

Action Steps:

This week, take one of your favorite “I am” statements from Jesus and share the meaning and significance with someone who may not know Jesus as their Savior (e.g., see below for additional study resources).