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NASB | John 1:12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 1:12 But to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the right [the authority, the privilege] to become children of God, that is, to those who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name-- [Is 56:5] |
Bible Question: The word "even" in this verse is confusing. Almost as if "receiving Him" was not completely necessary, but atleast believing in Him...? I see receiving and believing as one in the same, but the word "even" seems to distinguish between them. Any comments? |
Bible Answer: Notice that the word "even" is printed in italics in the NASB text. This indicates that the word does not appear in the original language but, in the view of the translators, is implied. By inserting italicized words into the test, it is their aim to give the English sentence more clarity or a better syntax. Obviously they do not always achieve their goal, as in the verse you cite. "Even" is one of those annoying little words of which the KJV translators were so fond. The NASB uses it too, although to a far lesser extent. For the word "even" in this verse, try reading it "...children of God -- to those who believe in His name." Believing in Christ is a prerequisite to receiving Him. |