The names attributed to Jesus serve as titles that He embraced to illustrate the diverse functions and roles He would undertake. These names are found throughout the New Testament. These titles and references contribute to a deeper understanding of His purpose and message.
Son of Man:
Emphasized His humanity, and was perhaps Jesus’ favorite reference to himself, and, due to the way He used it, was also a claim to divinity.
“Do not labor for food that perishes to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on Him God the Father has set his seal.” (John 6:27)
Bread of Life:
Refers to His life-giving role, and that He is the only source of eternal life.
“Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” (John 6:35)
Light of the World:
Light is a symbol of spiritual truth. Jesus is the only answer for man’s need of spiritual truth.
“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)
Gate for the Sheep:
Faith in Jesus is the only way possible to reach heaven.
“So Jesus said to them, Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep.” (John 10:7)
The Good Shepherd:
Jesus claimed and used the prophecies of the Messiah from the Old Testament to be about Him; this was a claim to Divinity which focused on His love and guidance.
The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
The Resurrection and the Life:
Jesus is the very source of life and the power over death.
“Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25)
The Way and the Truth and the Life:
Jesus is the way, the method, and the truth for all people. He summarized his purpose on earth by this title.
“Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
I am the Vine:
This was another of the names of Jesus, and the rest of the title is, “You are the Branches.”
Just as the branches gain life and cannot live apart from the vine, so we are utterly dependent on Christ for our spiritual life. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.” (John 15:1)