John 6:20
But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
λέγει
he saith
G3004
λέγει
he saith
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
αὐτοῖς
unto them
G846
αὐτοῖς
unto them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
4 of 8
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Cross References
Isaiah 44:8Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared it? ye are even my witnesses. Is there a God beside me? yea, there is no God; I know not any.Isaiah 41:10Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.Isaiah 41:14Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.Mark 6:50For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.
Historical Context
The 'egō eimi' (I AM) declaration links Jesus to Yahweh's self-revelation to Moses. What appeared as a terrifying apparition reveals itself as the Lord's gracious presence with His disciples.
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing Jesus' presence transform our fear into peace?
- What is the significance of Jesus' use of 'I AM' in this context of revelation and comfort?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus' words 'It is I; be not afraid' (Greek: egō eimi) use the divine name (Exodus 3:14) while offering comfort. His self-identification transforms fear to peace. The command 'be not afraid' appears throughout Scripture when God reveals Himself—His presence is meant to comfort, not terrify, His people.