In the O.T. the ‘to be’ verb is the same as the Name God revealed Himself to Abram (Gen. 12.1). The idea seems to be “the self-existing One”, or, “the always existing One,” or, the extended idea that Yahweh is the author of life.

In the Book of John, Jesus referred to Himself as “ego eimi:” (“I Am”). He explicitly used the expression to connect to Abram and claim in John 8.58: Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” (ESV). Jesus also used “ego eimi” to show His dominion over all aspects of life. He is “The Good Shepherd.” In Jn. 14.6 Jesus says he is the Way, Truth, and Life. He is the Light of the world and the Bread of Life. This concept comports well with the idea revealed in Isaiah 33.22: For the LORD is our judge; the LORD is our lawgiver; the LORD is our king; he will save us (ESV). The “LORD” indicates the actual name is Yahweh. He is The Judge, The Legislator, The King, and Savior.

Does God Want Us to Use His Divine Name? Part 1