The I AM Case

Read the text

Exodus 3:13–15; John 8:48–59

Read the primary passage aloud twice. On the first reading, listen for the burden of the text. On the second, mark repeated words, contrasts, commands, promises, causes, and conclusions.

• Isaiah 43:10–13
• John 1:1–3
• John 18:4–6

Language desk

Words that clarify—not words that perform.

Confirm each gloss by its use in this context. A lexicon offers possibilities; the sentence, paragraph, author, and canon determine what a word is doing here.

Form the doctrine

The theological claim

Jesus identifies himself within the divine identity and precedes Abraham eternally.

Defense drill

Say it under pressure.

Present the claim, the grammar, the Old Testament echo, and the crowd’s reaction in five minutes.

• State the opposing claim in a form its adherent could recognize.
• Open the controlling passage and establish the immediate context.
• Make one clear argument before adding supporting texts.
• Ask a diagnostic question, listen to the answer, and return to Christ and the gospel.

Wednesday assignment

Carry the truth into the week.

Build a one-page argument using only the primary texts and their immediate contexts.