The I AM

John 8:31-59

1. In John 8:31–59, Jesus spoke to people described as once believing in him (see vv. 31–32). Later, Jesus called the same people "slaves to sin" (v. 34), with "no room for Jesus' word" (v. 37), "children of the devil" (v. 44), and "liars" (v. 55). How is it possible for a person to "believe" something but not to be a true believer? See also 1 John 2:19. Is there an important lesson here for 2012 churchgoers?
   
2. Read Exodus 3:12–15. What do you think it means when God identifies himself as he did to Moses in these verses?
   
3. Read John 8:53–58. What was Jesus saying?
   
4. Many have said that it is important to see that Jesus did not merely say, "Before Abraham was, I was" but said, "I am." What do you think and why?
   
5. Talk about why the people responded as they did in 8:59. How do you respond to Jesus' claims? What do you hope to apply to your life from his words this week?
   

2012 Study Series • Copyright © 2012, Lake Avenue Church