11   He came unto his own, and his own received him not.     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:    13   Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. ~ JOHN 1:11-13

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The word “received” appears two times in these verses but differ in their meaning. In verse 11 it means “to accept what is offered”, but in verse 12 it means “to respond spontaneously”. There is a difference, even in how people respond to the Word. Some seem to accept what is offered. They accept that their sins are forgiven and that they will be rewarded with a life in heaven one day. The “receive” Jesus as their Savior. These who “receive” in verse 12 respond from down inside, because when they hear the Word it is what they have been longing for. It is these He gives the power, not innate power because that is the reason they respond, but the authority to execute the power they have by election. That is what being a Son of God is.