John 1:12-14 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:… I. CHRIST WHO HAS COME INTO THE WORLD SEEKS ADMISSION TO THE HEART as a lawful and everlasting tenant. The Christ in the book, in the creed, in the church, effects but little for us. Christ in the heart becomes all our salvation and desire. II. THE RECEPTION OF CHRIST IN THE HEART IS FOLLOWED BY SENSING. 1. There is a natural sonship pertaining to all men; for we are all His offspring. 2. There is a special, redemptive, restored sonship bestowed on those who receive Christ. 3. All that pertains to this sonship is supernatural. Adam was not a son by blood, nor by the will of the flesh, but by the will of God; and a restored son is as marvellous a creation as Adam. III. THIS SONSHIP INVOLVES A NEW BIRTH AND ELEVATION TO THE HIGHEST POSSIBLE POSITION. There is nothing higher than being admitted to sonship with God. What we want is not some new spiritual dignity, but the recognition of this exalted condition. IV. TRUE FAITH IS HERE DESCRIBED AND EVIDENCED. 1. Faith in receiving. Christ comes into the believer. Christ without does not save, but Christ within. 2. Faith is evidenced by the opening of the eyes to see the glory of Christ, and the affiliation to God which follows. V. GOD HERE RECEIVES ALL THE PRAISE. 1. The power and the will are of God. Ascribe to Him the wisdom and the glory. 2. The Christ whom we receive is God's "unspeakable gift." 3. Faith and its attendant privileges are by power bestowed by God. (S. Martin.) Parallel Verses KJV: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: |
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