How can we receive Christ when others "did not receive Him" (John 1:11)? Setting the Scene • John 1:11 declares, “He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.” • The verse highlights two realities: Christ’s gracious initiative in coming, and the heartbreaking refusal of many to welcome Him. • Yet the very next verse unveils hope: “But to all who did receive Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12). Understanding Rejection • “His own” refers first to Israel (cf. Matthew 15:24), then more broadly to every person created through Him (John 1:3). • Rejection sprang from spiritual blindness (2 Corinthians 4:4), hardened hearts (Hebrews 3:7-8), and love for darkness over light (John 3:19-20). The Open Door to Receive • God never closes the door on those willing to turn (Isaiah 55:1-3). • Christ still invites: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). • Reception involves believing facts about Jesus and entrusting oneself personally to Him (Romans 10:9-10). Steps to Receive Christ Today 1. Acknowledge the truth of who He is • Eternal Word made flesh (John 1:14). • Only Savior (Acts 4:12). 2. Admit personal sin and need • “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). 3. Believe and confess • Believe in your heart God raised Him; confess Him as Lord (Romans 10:9). • This faith is not mere mental assent but wholehearted trust (James 2:19-20). 4. Receive His gift of new birth • “Everyone born of God overcomes the world” (1 John 5:4). • New life is granted, not earned (Ephesians 2:8-9). 5. Walk in ongoing fellowship • Abide in His word (John 8:31). • Join a community of believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Rely on the Spirit’s power to obey (Galatians 5:16). Encouragement for Believers • Though many did not receive Him, the gospel continues to save (Romans 1:16). • Your reception of Christ makes you God’s child, secure forever (John 10:28-29). • Keep sharing His invitation; hearts once closed can open, just as ours did (2 Peter 3:9). |
    |