John 6:20 Meaning and Explanation
“But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jesus speaks into their fear: it is I; be not afraid.
What Does John 6:20 Mean?
From the darkness comes a voice the disciples know. The Greek words rendered 'It is I' are literally 'I am' — at the least a friend identifying himself, and in this Gospel a phrase that gathers up the name by which God revealed himself at the burning bush (Exodus 3:14).
Notice what calms the storm-tossed first: not the stilling of the wind but the presence of the Lord. 'Be not afraid' rests entirely on 'It is I' — on who he is, not on how the weather looks. Fear loses its grip when Christ makes himself known within the storm. His presence outweighs every circumstance it enters.
John 6:20 in the Original Language
ego eimi (ἐγώ εἰμι), 'It is I' -- literally 'I am', the phrase that echoes God's name revealed in Exodus 3:14.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 6:20
What does John 6:20 mean?
Jesus speaks into their fear: it is I; be not afraid.