John 1:12

12 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:

Ver. 12. To them he gave power ] Or, privilege preferment, prerogative royal, heavenly honour, ουρανιαν τιμην , as Nonnus here rendereth it, and fitly. For if sons, then heirs,Romans 8:17; Romans 8:17 . Hence that Ecce admirantis, 1 John 3:1 , and that "Who am I?" 2 Samuel 7:18 ; 2 Samuel 14:13-15 . Kings can make their firstborn only heirs, as Jehoshaphat, 2 Chronicles 21:3 ; but here all are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.

Even to them that believe in his name ] Though with never so weak a faith, such as may seem to be rather unbelief than faith, Mark 9:24 . The least bud draws sap from the root, as well as the greatest branch. The weakest hand may receive a ring. Credo languida fide, sed tamen fide, I believe by faint faith but yet by faith, said Dr Cruciger on his death bed. A weak faith is a joint possessor though no faith can he a joint purchaser of this precious privilege here specified. (Selneccer. paedag. Christ.)