Topical Encyclopedia Introduction"I Am That I Am" is a profound and significant name of God revealed in the Hebrew Scriptures, specifically in the Book of Exodus. This name is central to understanding the nature and character of God as presented in the Bible. It is a declaration of God's eternal, self-existent, and unchanging nature. Biblical Context The name "I Am That I Am" is found in Exodus 3:14, during the encounter between God and Moses at the burning bush. God commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, and Moses asks God what he should say when the Israelites inquire about the name of the God who sent him. God responds, "I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’" (Exodus 3:14). Hebrew Understanding In Hebrew, the phrase "I Am That I Am" is "Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh." The verb "Ehyeh" is a form of the verb "to be," indicating existence. This name emphasizes God's self-existence and independence from creation. Unlike humans, whose existence is contingent upon various factors, God's existence is absolute and uncaused. Theological Significance 1. Eternality and Immutability: The name "I Am" signifies God's eternal nature. He is not bound by time and remains constant throughout history. This immutability assures believers of God's unchanging promises and faithfulness. 2. Self-Existence: God is self-sufficient and does not rely on anything outside Himself for existence. This self-existence underscores His sovereignty and ultimate authority over all creation. 3. Presence and Accessibility: The name "I Am" also conveys God's presence with His people. It assures the Israelites of His active involvement in their deliverance and His ongoing relationship with them. New Testament Connection The significance of "I Am" is further illuminated in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ uses the phrase to reveal His divine identity. In John 8:58, Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, before Abraham was born, I am!" . This statement asserts His pre-existence and divinity, aligning Himself with the God of the Old Testament. Implications for Believers For believers, the name "I Am That I Am" is a source of comfort and assurance. It reminds them of God's eternal presence, His unchanging nature, and His faithfulness to His promises. It calls believers to trust in God's sovereignty and to rely on His self-sufficient power in all circumstances. Conclusion The name "I Am That I Am" is a profound declaration of God's nature, revealing His eternal, self-existent, and unchanging character. It is a cornerstone of biblical theology, providing insight into the divine nature and offering assurance to believers throughout the ages. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 3:14And God said to Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shall you say to the children of Israel, I AM has sent me to you. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 1:4,11,17 Library He Next Skilfully Confutes the Partial, Empty and Blasphemous ... Of the Name of God Sundry August Titles, Descriptive of Deity, Applied to the Son ... After this He Shows that the Son What is his Name? The God who Dwells with Men Augustus, the Founder of the Empire, Would not Even have the Title ... Positive Features of John's Gospel. The views of Redemption Entertained by These Heretics. For Suppose that it had Occurred to Us, Moved Either by Suitable ... Resources I: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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