Then how would your Greek class translate John 6:20?
”Without fail. FWIW, “am” does indicate continued state of being.”
Would you care to elaborate?
John 6:20 - ...and he says to them “I Am; Fear Not!”
He’s walking on water and then they’re immediately transported. Of course, He’s the Great “I am” and they should not fear.
In seminary, I guarantee you that would have been the discussion. We loved to jump on stuff like that. :>)
So far as “am” being a continued state of being, it’s a present tense state of being verb. It really doesn’t assume anything regarding the beginning or ending of that state of being.