This post was last updated on April 18, 2026
Day 6 (Year 2)
Believing in the Lord, Receiving Forgiveness and an Inheritance
“… that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.” (Acts 26:18b NASB)
In 1 John chapter 2 verse 12, Apostle John emphasizes that spiritual children receive forgiveness of sins “for His name’s sake.” In Luke’s record here, Jesus told Paul that it is by “faith in Jesus” that believers will receive forgiveness of sins. I understand the above two passages as complementary. A person must first have faith in Jesus, and then it becomes possible for him or her to receive forgiveness of sins through Jesus’ name—that is, through all that is encompassed in His name. Furthermore, the passage carries some even richer meanings.
(Following the previous discussion.) Fourth, the Greek phrase “by faith in Me” specifically denotes faith that resides in Jesus Christ—a formulation Paul uses throughout his letters. Luke’s precision here is significant. The faith that brings forth forgiveness of sins is not self-confidence, but faith anchored specifically in Christ. For Paul and Luke alike, simply saying “faith” would not adequately convey the distinctive nature of salvific faith, so they emphasize faith in Christ as the source of forgiveness of sins. This represents the kind of faith that Jesus Himself approves, directs, and delights in—possibly including the faith He imparts to believers—and it is this faith that brings us forgiveness, sanctification, and inheritance with Him.
Fifth, the term “sanctify” derives from the Greek word hagiazo, here meaning “to be separated from profane things and dedicated to God,” and “being purified.” This transformation is essential for believers, though it typically unfolds gradually rather than instantaneously. The journey requires first recognizing what is defiling, then making a deliberate commitment to consecrate to God, which leads to more accurate knowledge of Christ. Through this knowledge comes true understanding of what faith in Christ means, and with that distinctive faith in Him, we can have both forgiveness of sins and a purified life.
Sixth, the word “inheritance” is translated from the Greek word kleros, denoting “what is obtained by lot” according to God’s will—the particular gifts He bestows on each believer, and differ from the salvation we all obtain equally. To claim our inheritance, we must embrace our identity as God’s children, shed the spirit and mindset of enslavement, and align our life decisions with His purpose. And further discussions are coming.
Reflection questions:
1) What kind of faith in believers does Jesus Christ find pleasing? Do you have this kind of faith?
2) Among the three steps of being separated from all that is defiling, consecrating yourself to God, and being made clean, which step do you need to focus on right now?