In the Gospel of John, the “I am” statements reveal who Jesus is and what he came to do (see also 4:26; 8:12; 9:5; 10:7–9, 11–14; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1–5). Jesus used the words I am on purpose. These words would remind his listeners of the name of God in the Old Testament (Exodus 3:14).
I am the bread of life: Jesus is the true manna that came from God (John 6:38). He satisfies the spiritual hunger of those who believe in him (compare 4:10–13).