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. 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.)