Introduction

This study examines the 7 "I am + [Predicate Statements]" Jesus is quoted as saying in the Gospel of John. The most defining of these statements and thus the interpretive key of the others is found in John 8:48-59, claiming to pre-exist Abraham. This claim is perhaps the clearest claim Jesus makes about divinity in the Gospels.  Going through the following and the 7 sessions can make up 8 sessions total.  All catechesis must begin with Jesus, and this study examines the major aspects of Christ's mission. These statements are pedagogical, contribute to overall themes of scripture, move from what is tangible to what is mystical, heavenly, and eternal, and move simple concepts to profound lessons.

 The Intent of this Study is to...

• Form the reader/participants in their understanding of Christ.

• Connect Magisterial assertions concerning Christ to their premises in scripture.

• Provide the reader with a concept of Christ and His mission, especially as it relates to 

Content by Session

1. Why are "I am" statements so significant?

2. “I am the living bread…sent down from heaven”

3. “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.”

4. A Double Session (due to the verse's close proximity to each other)

   1. “I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture.”

   2. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

5.  “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die”

6. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

7. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower…I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.”