John 8:58

"Truly, truly, I tell you," Jesus declared, "before Abraham was born, I am!"

Study Bible

Truly, truly, I tell you
The phrase "Truly, truly" is translated from the Greek "ἀμὴν ἀμὴν" (amen amen), which is a solemn affirmation of truth. In the Jewish tradition, "amen" is used to express agreement or certainty. By repeating it, Jesus emphasizes the absolute truth and importance of His statement. This double affirmation is unique to Jesus in the Gospels, underscoring His authority and the weight of His words. It is a call for the listener to pay close attention, as what follows is of utmost significance.

Jesus declared
The Greek word for "declared" is "εἶπεν" (eipen), which means to speak or say. This verb indicates a direct and authoritative statement. In the context of the Gospel of John, Jesus often uses declarative statements to reveal His identity and mission. This particular declaration is not just a casual remark but a profound revelation of His divine nature.

before Abraham was born
The phrase "before Abraham was born" situates Jesus' existence in a time frame that predates the patriarch Abraham, who is a central figure in Jewish history and faith. The Greek word "γενέσθαι" (genesthai) is used here, meaning "to become" or "to be born." This implies a beginning or coming into existence. By stating that He existed before Abraham, Jesus is asserting His pre-existence, a concept that aligns with the prologue of John's Gospel, where Jesus is described as the Word who was with God in the beginning (John 1:1).

I am!
The phrase "I am" is translated from the Greek "ἐγώ εἰμί" (ego eimi). This is a direct reference to the divine name revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14, where God says, "I AM WHO I AM." In the Hebrew, this is "Ehyeh-Asher-Ehyeh," which conveys God's eternal, self-existent nature. By using "I am," Jesus is not only claiming pre-existence but also identifying Himself with Yahweh, the God of Israel. This is a profound and bold declaration of His divinity, which would have been unmistakable to His Jewish audience. It is a pivotal moment in the Gospel of John, as it encapsulates the central theme of Jesus' divine identity and mission.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is making a profound declaration about His identity and divinity.

2. Abraham
A patriarch of the Jewish faith, revered as the father of the nation of Israel. Jesus references Abraham to make a point about His eternal existence.

3. The Pharisees
Religious leaders of the time who were often in opposition to Jesus. They are the audience to whom Jesus is speaking in this passage.

4. Jerusalem
The city where this conversation takes place, a significant location for Jewish religious life and the setting for many of Jesus' teachings.

5. The Temple
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the broader context of John 8 suggests that this conversation occurs in or near the Temple, a central place of worship and teaching.

Teaching Points

Understanding Jesus' Divinity
Jesus' statement "I am" is a direct claim to His divine nature. Recognizing Jesus as God is foundational to Christian faith.

The Eternal Nature of Christ
Jesus' existence before Abraham underscores His eternal nature. Believers can find comfort in knowing that Jesus is unchanging and eternal.

Confronting Unbelief
The reaction of the Pharisees to Jesus' claim challenges us to examine our own responses to Jesus' identity. Are we accepting or rejecting His divinity?

Faith in Jesus' Words
Jesus' declaration calls us to trust in His words and promises. His eternal nature assures us that His promises are reliable and true.

Living in Light of Jesus' Identity
Understanding who Jesus is should impact how we live our lives, encouraging us to live with purpose and in alignment with His teachings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' use of "I am" in John 8:58 connect to God's revelation to Moses in Exodus 3:14, and what does this reveal about Jesus' identity?

2. In what ways does understanding Jesus' eternal nature provide comfort and assurance in your daily life?

3. How do the reactions of the Pharisees to Jesus' claim challenge us to reflect on our own beliefs about who Jesus is?

4. How can the truth of Jesus' divinity and eternal existence influence the way you approach challenges and uncertainties?

5. What practical steps can you take to live in alignment with the truth of Jesus' identity as revealed in John 8:58 and other related scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:14
Jesus' use of "I am" connects to God's self-identification to Moses as "I AM WHO I AM," indicating Jesus' claim to divinity.

John 1:1-14
This passage speaks to the pre-existence of Christ, affirming that Jesus was with God in the beginning and is God.

Colossians 1:16-17
These verses emphasize Christ's role in creation and His existence before all things, supporting His statement in John 8:58.

Hebrews 13:8
This verse highlights the unchanging nature of Jesus, reinforcing His eternal existence.