Verse 18. To open their eyes. To enlighten or instruct them. Ignorance is represented by the eyes being closed, and the instruction of the gospel by the opening of the eyes. See Eph 1:18.

And to turn them from darkness to light. From the darkness of heathenism and sin, to the light and purity of the gospel. Darkness in an emblem of ignorance and of sin; and the heathen nations are often represented as sitting in darkness. See Barnes "Mt 4:16; See Barnes "Joh 1:4"; See Barnes "Joh 1:6".

And from the power of Satan. From the dominion of Satan. Comp. Col 1:13; 1 Pe 2:9; See Barnes "Joh 12:31"; See Barnes "Joh 16:11".

Satan is thus represented as the prince of this world; the ruler of the darkness of this world; the prince of the power of the air, etc. The heathen world, lying in sin and superstition, is represented as under his control; and this passage teaches, doubtless, that the great mass of the people of this world are the subjects of the kingdom of Satan, and are led captive by him at his will.

Unto God. To the obedience of the one living and true God.

That they may receive forgiveness of sins. Through the merits of that Saviour who died; that thus the partition wall between the Jews and the Gentiles might be broken down, and all might be admitted to the same precious privileges of the favour and mercy of God. See Barnes "Ac 2:38".

And inheritance. An heirship, or lot, (klhron;) that they might be entitled to the privileges and favours of the children of God. See Barnes "Ac 20:32".

Which are sanctified. Among the saints; the children of God. See Barnes "Ac 20:32".

{b} "open their eyes" Isa 35:5; 42:7; Eph 1:18

{c} "turn them" Lu 1:79; Joh 8:12; 2 Co 4:6; 1 Pe 2:9

{d} "power of Satan" Col 1:13 {e} "forgiveness of sins" Lu 1:77; Eph 1:7; Col 1:14

{f} "inheritance" Eph 1:11; Col 1:12; 1 Pe 1:4

{g} "sanctified" Joh 17:17; Ac 20:32; 1 Co 1:30; Re 21:27

{h} "faith" Eph 2:8; Heb 11:6