John and the Synoptic Gospels

Instructions:

John is quite different from the Synoptic Gospels in terms of theological emphases and the presentation of Jesus. A distinctive feature of Jesus in John is his use of “I am” language. There are the seven famous “I am” sayings and other places where Jesus uses this formula in a striking way (cf. John 8.58: “Before Abraham was born, I am”). Examine this language in John and in your post discuss the following:

1. How does Jesus’ use of “I am” relate to the theme of life in John?
2. How might we account for the absence of the “I am” language from the Synoptic Gospels?
   • Make initial post
   • 250-300 words