Again, therefore, Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 WEB
With these words, Jesus makes a bold assertion. This is one of many statements Jesus makes that begin with the words “I am.” This is significant because of its implications. Saying “I am the light of the world,” Jesus asserts his divinity and Jewish religious leaders of the time understood this.
When God instructed Moses to bring the children of Israel out of Egypt, Moses asked the Lord what he should tell them when they ask Moses of God, “What is his name?” The Lord’s answer is recorded in Exodus 3:14 which states, “God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM,’ and he said, ‘You shall tell the children of Israel this: I AM has sent me to you.’ WEB”
The Glory of the Lord
Jesus’ declaration that those who follow him have “the light of life” directly relates to prophecy. We read in Isaiah 60:1, “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. KJV” Jesus’ calling himself the light of the world and the use of the language “I am” enraged religious leaders such as the Pharisees.
Asserting that he brings the light of life to the world, Jesus reveals to the masses that he is the Messiah, the Savior. For his followers, this is welcome news. For those who reject him, this is seen as blasphemy. As the source of light, Jesus asserts his divinity which is more than some religious leaders are willing to accept.
I Am From Above
Some of the Jews present put their faith in Christ while others sought to kill him. Jesus says to those who oppose him in John 8:23-24, “You are from beneath. I am from above. You are of this world. I am not of this world. I said therefore to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am he, you will die in your sins. WEB”
With these “I am” statements, Jesus teaches the righteousness imparted through faith in the tradition of Abraham while asserting himself as the Son of God. Salvation is a gift through the grace of God and received by faith. As we read in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the light of life that is your Son and my Savior. Thank you for my salvation in Jesus Christ. Give me wisdom. Help me to share the truth of your holy word with the world. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: He Did Not Sin
