How does Exodus 3:13 connect to God's self-revelation in John 8:58? Setting the Scene in Exodus Exodus 3 places us at the burning bush, where Moses encounters the holy presence of God. • Moses anticipates Israel’s inevitable question: “What is His name?” (Exodus 3:13). • God answers, “I AM WHO I AM… Say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you’” (Exodus 3:14). • The Hebrew behind “I AM” (ʼehyeh) is tied to the covenant name YHWH (He is), declaring God’s self-existence, unchangeableness, and eternal presence. God’s Name Revealed: “I AM” Key takeaways from Exodus 3: • Self-existence – God depends on no one and nothing (cf. Isaiah 44:6). • Eternity – He spans past, present, and future simultaneously (cf. Isaiah 41:4). • Covenant faithfulness – “I AM” binds Himself to His people, promising deliverance. Fast-Forward to the Temple Courts Roughly 1,400 years later, Jesus stands before religious leaders in Jerusalem (John 8). The heated debate revolves around Abraham and true sonship. Into that setting Jesus boldly pronounces: “Truly, truly, I tell you… before Abraham was born, I am!” (John 8:58) His listeners understand the claim; they reach for stones (v. 59) because blasphemy under Mosaic Law demands death (Leviticus 24:16). “I AM” on Jesus’ Lips How Jesus’ words echo Exodus 3: • Same phrase, same significance – Jesus does not say, “I was,” but “I am,” matching God’s self-designation. • Present-tense eternity – He locates Himself outside linear time, just as YHWH did. • Direct identification – Jesus claims the divine name, not merely similarity to God. Key Parallels at a Glance • Question of identity – Exodus: “What is His name?” – John: “Who do You make Yourself out to be?” (John 8:53) • Divine self-revelation – Exodus: “I AM WHO I AM.” – John: “I am.” • Response of listeners – Exodus: Moses worships (Exodus 3:6). – John: Leaders attempt stoning (John 8:59). Why This Matters for Understanding Jesus 1. Jesus is not merely a prophet; He is the eternal God who spoke to Moses. 2. The consistency of Scripture shines: the God of the bush is the Christ of the cross (Hebrews 13:8). 3. The gospel hinges on Jesus’ divine identity—only the eternal “I AM” can offer eternal life (John 8:24; 10:28). Implications for Worship and Life • Assurance: The One who saved Israel from Egypt now saves us from sin (Romans 10:9-13). • Confidence: Because He is self-existent, His promises cannot fail (2 Corinthians 1:20). • Obedience: The proper response to “I AM” is the same today as for Moses—submission and trust. |
    |