When Jesus was about to ascend to heaven, he ensured that he left his disciples assurance and direction. In John 14:6, Jesus said. “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” As soothing as the words might sound, what exactly did Jesus mean by them?
As we all know, Jesus was sent to this world to redeem a rather doomed universe. He was meant to wash humankind of all their sins. However, the same people he came to save were the ones who condemned him to death. Therefore, after his resurrection, Jesus knew that his purpose was fulfilled and the disciples had the mandate to continue spreading the gospel. Therefore, he left the disciples the message of comfort.
His message begins with the phrase “I am,” which is an intense way of referring to oneself in Greek. The phrase attributes power and authority to Jesus’ utterings as he was a direct representative of God on earth.
Secondly, Jesus used the definite article “the way” to distinguish himself as the “only way” to redemption. Jesus knew that humanity was suffering and they desperately needed a sense of direction in life.
Again Jesus used the definite article “the truth.” What he meant is that he was one with the Law of God as the authoritative standard of righteousness. In fact, Jesus came to fulfill the law and the prophets. Therefore, being the incarnate word of God, Jesus is the source of all truth.
Finally, Jesus expressed that he is “the life.” Jesus had constantly told his disciples of his impending death. After defeating death, he proved his authority over life and death. Therefore, Jesus gave the promise that “because he lives, humanity will live.” In these words. Jesus was declaring himself as the greatest, the only path to heaven, the only measure of righteousness, and the source of both physical and spiritual life.