“What is the difference between existence and life? Existence is hopelessly going through the motions of being a human being. Life brings peace and contentment, loving relationships, and satisfying service. It is eternally spent in the presence of God.”

I am the bread of life. (John 6:35a NRSV)

“ . . . all of us have been spiritually blind. Jesus offers us his healing touch. We can become able to see the power of God. We can see the importance of a restored relationship with God. Jesus can give us the ability to see who he is.”

As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. (John 9:5 NRSV)

“Entrance to the fold leads us to security and abundant life. . . Leaving our fears and concerns behind, we have new vitality and a new interest in the things of God.”

I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. (John 10:9 NRSV)

“[Jesus] promised the same new life to all who put their trust in him. If we do not believe his claim, there is no point in Christianity. This is the central teaching without which we have no renewing power to live.”

I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live . . . (John 11:25 NRSV)

“. . . John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or another prophet. . . blasphemer, imposter, glutton, drunkard, sinner. We frequently say what we think is expected of us when asked important questions.”

Who do people say that the Son of Man is? (Matthew 16:13b NRSV)

“They certainly did not fully understand the coming suffering of Jesus, or the certainly of their own suffering. They did not totally see that Jesus came for love, not hate; forgiveness, not vengeance.”

You are the Messiah. (Mark 8:29 NRSV)

“This is the most important question anyone will ever ask of you. Who is Jesus to you? It is always good to know what others think. Peter’s reply to the question is an example for us. But in the end, the only thing that matters is our personal response to Jesus.”

But who do you say that I am? (Luke 9:20a NRSV)