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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
How would you describe yourself starting with the phrase – I am…; male or female – large or small – generous or stingy – black or white? Declarative statements such as these help define us, Jesus describing himself this way a number of times. For example, in discussing the coming of the Messiah, Jesus said, “I who speak to you am He.” Or ‘I am He whom you are expecting.’ ( John 4:26) On another occasion, Jesus’ sanity was questioned and his authority challenged, to which he replied, “…before Abraham was born, I am.” John 8:58 This echoed Jehovah’s revelation of himself as being eternally present in the past, present and future, “I am who I am” or “I will be who I will be.” Exodus 3:14 Which signified his absolute self-determination as well as his timelessness. Paul would later express his grasp of this attribute in regard to Christ by declaring that, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8
In referring to his timelessness while recruiting Moses to lead the Hebrews’ exodus from Egypt, Jehovah spoke of appearing to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob – the founding fathers of Israel – over a span of many years. Identifying himself as “…the Lord…God Almighty…” Exodus 6:2,3 Jehovah had gradually revealed his nature and character to them as their ability to understand and willingness to obey grew. In progressively identifying himself through the many descriptive names he assumed, he furthered the process of personalizing himself to his followers as they responded with deepened faith. ( Genesis 17:1) Jesus Christ fully embodied and exemplified the essence of Jehovah, as the “…exact representation of his being,…” Hebrews 1:3; further personalizing our relationship with him by transferring some of his characteristics on to us. “You are the light of the world,…let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds (patterned on God’s will) and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14 & 16 (See also John 8:12)
Jesus insistently declared, “I am the bread of life.”, which in turn imparts eternal life on those who “eat” of his substance ( John 6:35), and claimed to be the source of “living water” that satisfies the thirst of any and all who come hungering and thirsting for truth and purpose in life. ( Matthew 5:6 & John 7:37) He said of himself, “I am the gate (or door, John 10:7), through which all must pass who seek to be saved and gain entrance to heaven. ( Revelation 3:19,20) He further asserted, “I am the good Shepherd,” ( John 10:11) who would lay down his life for the lost sheep of the world. Finally, he consoled his friends Mary and Martha and vindicated his claim of, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will never die.”; by raising their brother Lazarus from death. ( John 11:17-44) His unbending proclamation of, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6; causing many to stumble as the truth often does. ( 2 Thessalonians 2:10,2Tim. 3:7) Yet he established a link for us to access that way, truth and life through, “…the true vine…”; his father being the gardener who tends the crop – separating unproductive branches from the productive ones. “…If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:1-5
The magnitude of these declarative phrases can’t be over-emphasized. The words – I Am – which preceded all these statements were themselves a claim to God-hood. ( Genesis 3:14; John 8:58; Hebrews 13:8; Revelation 1:8) Even when facing a torturous death, Christ expressed his willingness to accept God’s call and will for his life, regardless of personal consequences ( Matthew 26:36-42); calling on us to exhibit this same degree of willingness in responding to God’s will for our lives as well. ( Matthew 6:10) When God calls – how will you respond? Will your response be one of positive interaction with God and mankind or a negative declaration of evil intent or uncaring indifference?
The Bible is filled with examples of those who responded to this call to obedient service. Check back next week and be inspired by their responses to the challenges of God’s call.
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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