Why is the phrase 'as many as' significant in the Bible?

The phrase 'as many as' appears frequently in Scripture to signify the breadth and scope of God's grace toward His people. In Acts 13:48, it states that as many as were ordained to eternal life believed, highlighting God's sovereign choice in salvation and the reality that the Gospel call goes out to all, yet only those elected will respond. In John 1:12, 'as many as received Him' affirms that those who accept Christ do so because of the divine enablement they receive. This duality in the phrase showcases God's sovereignty and human responsibility—while all are invited, only the elect will receive the gift of faith. This balance instills hope and assurance in believers, for it reaffirms that their coming to faith is part of God's unfolding plan of grace.