His Word is a Lamp: John

Y’all, I have to tell you that I got an unexpected chuckle today. As I was searching for a song on the web, an ad for the Rolling Stones came up promoting their 2024 tour. I was immediately reminded of how I made a reference to them on Sunday, speculating if they would ever stop touring or as some folks jokingly say, they'll just live forever. The reason I made reference to them in my sermon was to illustrate that they have achieved the epitome of what the world says it means to be successful. But if they don’t have Jesus, the Bread of Life, they won’t find the satisfaction they sing about and express longing for, even though they’ve looked everywhere. This brings me to what I want us to remember from the book of John: Jesus made multiple “I AM” statements that show us who He is and why He came to earth. 
Here’s a list of these statements from John’s Gospel:

• I AM the Bread of Life
• I AM the Light of the World
• Before Abraham was, I AM
• I AM the door/gate for 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 Vine

These statements help us to know Jesus but also to realize that He is all encompassing in our lives. Hungry for something more in life? He’s the Bread of Life.
Feeling disoriented in life? He’s the Light of the World.
Need direction? He’s the Good Shepherd.
Need a way in life? He’s the Way, the Truth, and the Life. 
Longing for a deeper relationship with Him? Enter by Him (the Gate) and you’ll know the Good Shepherd and His voice.

These aren’t self-affirming statements from Jesus. They are invitations to know Him and to find life in Him. I really think we should take Him up on His promises because as He told Martha, “I am the Resurrection and the Life.” He then asks her directly, “Do you believe this?” 

He asks us the same question: Do you believe this?

I’m praying that you believe Him!
Pastor Andy 

Please read John 1 for our time on Sunday as we begin Advent together.

Questions for Reflection:

1. Which “I AM” statement from Jesus is resonating with you? Why do you think that is?
2. How do the promises Jesus gives with these statements encourage your faith in Him?
3. Who in your life needs the Bread of Life?

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