The verse quoted is John 8:58: “Before Abraham was born, I am!” (John 8:58, NIV). Missionaries often connect this to Exodus 3:14, where God said to Moses, “I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I am has sent me to you.’” But the context shows Jesus is not claiming divinity.(Exodus 3:14, NIV)

In the same chapter, Jesus says: “As it is, you are looking for a way to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things.” (John 8:40, NIV). Clearly, Jesus identifies himself as a man who heard from God, not God Himself.

The phrase “I am” (Greek: egō eimi) can simply mean “I exist” or “I have been.” (refer to Strong’s Greek Lexicon) Jesus is emphasising his role in God’s plan before Abraham, not equality with God.

Both the Bible and the Qur’an affirm pure monotheism. Jesus himself said:
“The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Mark 12:29, NIV)

And the Qur’an teaches:
“Say, He is Allah, [who is] One.” (Qur’an 112:1, Sahih International)

So the central truth remains: God is One, without partner or equal, worthy of worship alone.