Acts 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.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Standing trial before King Agrippa, Paul recounts the words the risen Christ spoke to him, describing the mission to which he was called.
What Does Acts 26:18 Mean?
Acts 26:18 is the heart of Paul's commission -- he was sent to open eyes, turn people from darkness to light and from Satan's power to God, so they might receive forgiveness and a lasting inheritance. Paul stands before King Agrippa, recounting his dramatic encounter with the risen Christ. These are the words Jesus spoke to him, defining the mission for which he was called. In one rich sentence, the whole purpose of the gospel unfolds.
The first task is "to open their eyes" -- to bring sight to those who cannot see spiritual reality. This leads to a turning, described in two parallel movements: "from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God." These pairs picture the same transformation from different angles -- moving out of blindness and bondage into illumination and freedom under God. The purpose of this turning is twofold and glorious. First, "that they may receive forgiveness of sins" -- the release and pardon that frees a person from guilt. Second, an "inheritance among them which are sanctified" -- a share in the blessings God gives to those set apart for Him. The word "inheritance" speaks of belonging and of a future secured. The whole transformation is received "by faith that is in me," that is, by trust in Christ. This single verse gathers together sight, deliverance, forgiveness, belonging, and faith -- a complete picture of what God accomplishes in a turning life.
In the Original Language
The Greek "epistrepho" (turn) means to turn around or convert, and "kleros" (inheritance) means a portion, lot, or share given to those who belong.
Cross References
“Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:”
- Colossians 1:13
“That ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;”
- 1 Peter 2:9
“But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:”
- Acts 9:15
Application
The gospel brings a complete transformation -- opening blind eyes, freeing from bondage, granting forgiveness, and securing a lasting place among God's people for all who turn to Christ in faith.