John’s Gospel records Jesus’ seven “I AM” statements—seven ways He meets the world’s needs: “bread of life” (6:35), “light of the world” (8:12), “the door” (10:7, 9), “the good Shepherd” (10:11, 14), “the resurrection” (11:25), “the way, truth, and life” (14:6), and “the true vine” (15:1). Each of these themes could be explored in infinite depth, reflecting how our needs are met by Jesus.

For example, Jesus being the “light of the world” is not to be considered just as a one-time acknowledgement. Rather, He is a Light to be followed. When two people are walking on a path in the dark of night with only one flashlight, the one without the light must follow closely the one with the light. So Jesus as the Light must not only be acknowledged and embraced, He must be followed! Only by following close behind Him can we avoid wandering into the darkness.

Jesus says, “I am the light,” and we say, “Yes, You are! And I am following close behind!” 

Those that love darkness rather than light shall have their doom accordingly. 

Matthew Henry