The gospel of John was written by one of Jesus’ disciples named John. This was not the same one as John the Baptist. The John who wrote the gospel was with Jesus throughout Jesus’ life and ministry so he wrote as an eyewitness to what he saw and heard.

That’s one of the most asked questions of all time. Jesus doesn’t have a Facebook page or pics posted on Instagram. But, in the gospel of John, you get something better than even social media posts. You get a look at the self-portrait of Jesus in His own words—His seven “I am” statements. Think of it as an autobiography of Jesus that you can “like,” “friend,” & “follow” as you discover amazing things that He proclaims about Himself. And, what Jesus tells about Himself and the relationship you can enjoy through faith in Him will satisfy the spiritual hunger in your soul.

The “I Am’s” are statements that Jesus made in the gospel of John. They are called the “I Am’s” because each one of them starts with the same 2 words, “I am.” Then, Jesus follows the words “I am” with a phrase to describe Himself to those who are listening. Some examples are: “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35), “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12), and “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). There are 7 specific “I Am” statements in the gospel of John.

In Painting the Portrait of Jesus, you will learn that Jesus is the answer to the spiritual needs of every person. He is the answer to every inner need that you have. And, you will see that His self-portrait describes that. With each lesson, you’ll be adding to your portrait of Jesus as you study the “I Am’s.” As He reveals Himself, you will long for a close relationship with this same Jesus, the one to whom you belong. And, you will want to follow Him because He is trustworthy!

For anyone who is new to the Bible, Painting the Portrait of Jesus is the ideal way to learn who Jesus is, how He meets your needs, and why you can trust Him enough to follow Him. Even if you have been a Christian for a long time, it is always worthwhile and rewarding to go back to the basics. In this study, you will not only learn about the 7 “I Am’s” of Jesus, you will also read through the whole book of John.

If you are new to Bible Study, start with something designed especially for anyone who is new to the Bible. Look for basic lessons with simple questions with easy-to-understand terms and applications. My “Graceful Beginning Series” of Bible study books are designed especially for anyone who is new to the Bible.

Yes! Anyone can study the Bible Study for themselves. The Bible is God’s Word for every one of us. Just start reading through the New Testament. The Holy Spirit will help you understand what you are reading. That is what God desires for you so He makes sure you are enabled to do it. So, you can ask the Lord to teach you through what you are reading.