What is the role of the "I AM" statements in the teachings of Jesus?

The "I AM" statements in the teachings of Jesus serve to express His divine authority distinctly. These statements are a profound theological assertion of Jesus’ identity and His relationship to God. By using the phrase "I AM," Jesus not only claims a unique identity but also aligns Himself with God's self-disclosure in the Hebrew Scriptures, particularly in Exodus 3:14, where God reveals His name to Moses. Each of these statements conveys essential truths about His nature and role—for example, phrases like "I am the bread of life" and "I am the light of the world" reveal His provision and guidance in spiritual terms.

This use of "I AM" does not primarily function to confuse His audience or to illustrate historical events. Instead, it firmly establishes Jesus as an authority in both a spiritual and, ultimately, a salvific context. Additionally, while He does engage with Jewish laws in His teachings, the "I AM" statements are fundamentally more about revealing His divine essence and the relationship He has with humanity rather than debating those laws. Thus, the role of these statements is richly theological and central to understanding Jesus’ identity and mission.