Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Acts - Chapter 26 - Verse 18

26:18
To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

Meaning

The meaning of this verse is that through the preaching of the Gospel, people's eyes are opened to spiritual truth and they are turned from darkness to light. This turning from darkness to light represents a transformation from a life of sin and ignorance to a life of righteousness and understanding. The verse also speaks of turning people from the power of Satan to God, indicating a shift in allegiance and obedience from the forces of evil to the will of God. This change in allegiance allows for the forgiveness of sins and the inheritance among the sanctified, who are set apart for God's purposes. The sanctified are those who have been made holy and righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. Overall, the verse emphasizes the power of the Gospel to bring about a profound transformation in individuals, leading them to salvation and a new life in Christ.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Acts emphasizes the transformative power of God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit in the process of conversion. The language used here - "open their eyes," "turn them from darkness to light," and "from the power of Satan unto God" - speaks to a radical shift in one's understanding and allegiance. Through the preaching of the gospel, individuals are confronted with the truth of God's love and the reality of their sinfulness, leading them to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. This process results in the forgiveness of sins and the promise of an inheritance among the sanctified. The mention of faith being "in me" underscores the centrality of Jesus Christ in this transformation, highlighting the necessity of a personal relationship with Him for salvation. Word studies on terms such as "darkness," "light," "Satan," and "forgiveness" can provide deeper insights into the spiritual realities being described in this verse, shedding light on the profound theological truths contained within it.

American Standard Version

to open their eyes, that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive remission of sins and an inheritance among them that are sanctified by faith in me.
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