John 1:12

"He came to his own, and those who were his own didn’t receive him."

Key Reflection

This verse highlights the paradox that despite Jesus being the promised Messiah for Israel, many of his own people did not accept or recognize him. It underscores the broader theme of divine revelation often encountering resistance even among those who should have received it most readily.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 12. To as many as received him. The great mass; the people; the scribes and Pharisees rejected him. A few in his lifetime received him, and many more after his death. To receive him, here, means to believe on him. This is expressed at the end of the verse. Gave he power. This is more appropriately rendered in the margin by the word right or privilege. Comp. Ac 1:7; 5:4; Ro 9:21; 1 Co 7:37; 8:9; 9:4,5. Sons of God. Children of God by adoption. See Barnes "Mt 1:1". Christians are called sons of God-- 1st. Because they are adopted by him, 1 Jo 3:1. 2nd. Because they are like him ; they resemble him and have his spirit. 3rd.

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