Purpose: The purpose of this discussion is to use the images provided to reflect on your own modern day image for Jesus.

Overview: John records various metaphors that Jesus uses to describe his own identity. These metaphors take the form the following “I am” statements: 

• “I am the bread of life” (6:35, 51)
• “I am the light of the world” (8:12; 9:5)
• “I am the door” (10:7, 9)
• “I am the good shepherd” (10:11, 14)
• “I am the resurrection and the life” (11:25)
• “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (14:6)
• “I am the true vine” (15:1, 5)

Just like each of these scriptures captures something distinct about Jesus, different individuals throughout Christian history have created artistic representations of Jesus that each aim to communicate something true about him. 

Watch “Later Images of Jesus — Introducing the New Testament — Jerry Taylor” (2:55).

https://youtu.be/6Z4yvxHQ9S0

Post: For your discussion post, in 300-350 words, compose a modern “I Am” statement that reflects who Jesus is to you (whether you are a follower of Christ or not). For example, instead of “Jesus is my Good Shepherd,” you could say, “Jesus is my GPS,” or “Jesus is my subway station.” After you articulate this image, explain it to your peers. Feel free to offer personal stories that may elaborate on the statement you chose.