I Am That I Am, but, Who Do You Say That I Am, and Do They See What You Say?

 

We live in a world where identity is questioned daily. Social media pushes us to brand ourselves. Society pressures us to define who we are by what we do, how we look, or what we own. Yet, before culture ever asked, “Who are you?” God declared, “I Am That I Am” (Exodus 3:14).

God’s statement was not a slogan or a hashtag. It was a declaration of His eternal, unchanging, self-existent nature. He is not defined by shifting circumstances, unstable governments, or trending headlines. He is I Am—the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Who Do You Say That I Am?

Jesus repeated the identity question to His disciples in Matthew 16:15. Surrounded by idol worship in Caesarea Philippi, He asked, “Who do you say that I am?”

That same question echoes today. The culture says He’s a good teacher, a prophet, or maybe even irrelevant. But the answer has to be personal. Who is Jesus to you?

For some, He’s peace in an anxious world. For others, He’s provision in the face of inflation and economic struggle. For many, He’s comfort in a season of loss or uncertainty.

In a world where identities shift with the next trend, Jesus calls us to anchor our confession in who He truly is: Messiah, Savior, and Lord.

Do They See What You Say?

Confession, however, isn’t just verbal. It’s visible. In Matthew 5:16, Jesus told us to let our light shine before others. Words matter, but actions confirm them.

The reality is this: our neighbors, coworkers, and even our children may never read the Bible cover to cover. But they are reading our lives daily. Do they see Christ in how we handle pressure? How we treat people online? How we respond to injustice, pain, or conflict?

Today’s society doesn’t just want to hear about Jesus—they want to see Him lived out.

Christ’s Characteristics in Today’s World

Jesus gave us glimpses of who He is through powerful “I Am” statements. Each speaks directly into the struggles of today:

The Good Shepherd (John 10:11): In a world of betrayal and broken leadership, Jesus leads with sacrifice, not selfishness. He guides, protects, and restores.

The Light of the World (John 8:12): In an age of confusion, darkness, and misinformation, He is truth and clarity. His light exposes lies and brings peace.

The True Vine (John 15:5): In a culture obsessed with independence, He reminds us that without Him we can do nothing. Lasting fruit comes only through connection with Him.

Living the Confession in a Chaotic World

In John 13:35, Jesus made love the evidence of discipleship. Love—sacrificial, unconditional, selfless—is what sets believers apart. Imagine if, in today’s divided world, the Church was known less for what it argues about and more for how it loves.

In an environment of political tension, love refuses to dehumanize.

In an economy where resources are stretched, love shares generously.

In a society shouting for attention, love quietly serves.

This is how our confession becomes credible: when love and light are not just spoken but seen.

Practical Takeaways

1. Anchor in “I Am”: When anxiety rises, pause and remind yourself: God is still I Am. He hasn’t changed.

2. Make It Personal: Answer Jesus’ question daily: “Who do I say You are in my life today?”

3. Shine Consistently: Live in such a way that people don’t just hear your faith, they see it.

4. Stay Connected: Don’t let busyness disconnect you from the Vine. Prioritize prayer, Scripture, and worship.

5. Lead With Love: Let love—not opinion—be your loudest witness.

Closing Thought

In a noisy, divided, and unstable world, God’s words still stand: “I Am That I Am.” Jesus still asks: “Who do you say that I am?” And the world is still watching to see: “Do they see what you say?”

Our identity is secure when it’s rooted in Him. Our confession is credible when it’s lived out in love. And our witness shines brightest when the eternal I Am is reflected in who we are.

Unapologetically, G