Scripture: John 1:12 (ESV) – “But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.”
John 1:12 is a verse overflowing with hope and grace: “But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” Despite the sorrow of rejection mentioned in the previous verse, this statement is a glorious reminder of God’s kindness and generosity. Though many refused to welcome Christ, those who did receive Him are given an extraordinary gift: the right to become children of God.
Consider for a moment the wonder of this promise. To be called a child of God is no small privilege. It means that we are adopted into God’s family, fully loved, fully accepted, and given an inheritance that is eternal. It is a status that we could never earn, yet it is freely given to those who believe in Jesus. What does it mean to “receive” Him? It is more than a mere intellectual acknowledgment of who Jesus is; it is to embrace Him as Lord and Savior with a heart full of faith, trusting entirely in His name and His work on our behalf.
John Calvin emphasizes that this adoption is an act of God’s grace alone. We do not make ourselves children of God; He makes us His children. Our faith, weak and small as it may be, is the means through which we receive this gift. And what a gift it is! In receiving Christ, we are transformed from enemies of God to His beloved sons and daughters. Our sins are forgiven, our lives are redeemed, and we are given the Spirit of God, who testifies within us that we truly belong to Him.
Let this verse also remind us of the security we have in our identity as God’s children. The world may reject us, misunderstand us, or even persecute us for our faith, but nothing can change our status as God’s children. The right we are given is not based on our performance or our worthiness; it is based on the finished work of Christ and the unchanging promises of God.
Yet, being a child of God also comes with a calling. We are called to live in a way that reflects our Father’s character. Just as children bear the likeness of their parents, so should we bear the likeness of our Heavenly Father. This means growing in holiness, love, and obedience, not to earn God’s favor but as a response to the incredible love He has lavished on us.
Reflection Questions:
- Do you truly understand and embrace your identity as a child of God? How does this impact your daily life and your relationship with Him?
- In what ways can you live more fully in line with your identity, reflecting God’s love and holiness to the world around you?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible privilege of calling us Your children. We know this is a gift of grace, unearned and undeserved. Help us to live with the confidence and security of being Your beloved sons and daughters. Empower us by Your Spirit to reflect Your love and holiness in all we do. May our lives honor the name of Jesus, in whom we believe and receive life. Amen.
*edited and modernized from John Calvin’s sermon on John 1:12*
Covenant Presbyterian Church 