John 12:31

Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.

Now {G3568} is {G2076} the judgment {G2920} of this {G5127} world {G2889}: now {G3568} shall {G1544} the prince {G758} of this {G5127} world {G2889} be cast {G1544} out {G1854}.

Now is the time for this world to be judged, now the ruler of this world will be expelled.

Now judgment is upon this world; now the prince of this world will be cast out.

Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.

Commentary

John 12:31, "Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out," is a profound declaration by Jesus, spoken during His final week before the crucifixion. This verse encapsulates the cosmic significance of His impending death and resurrection.

Context

This statement follows Jesus' interaction with certain Greeks who wished to see Him, prompting a discourse where Jesus compares His coming death to a grain of wheat falling into the ground to bear much fruit (John 12:24). He speaks of His soul being troubled yet affirming His purpose (John 12:27), and a voice from heaven confirms God's glorification of His name. Immediately after this divine affirmation, Jesus declares the "judgment of this world" is at hand, directly linking His sacrifice to this pivotal event.

Key Themes

  • The Cross as Judgment: The crucifixion of Jesus, seemingly a defeat, is presented here as the ultimate act of divine judgment against the fallen world system and its ruler. It exposes the world's rebellion against God and God's perfect righteousness.
  • Satan's Defeat and Expulsion: The "prince of this world" (a title Jesus uses for Satan in John's Gospel) is declared to be "cast out." This signifies a decisive and irreversible blow to Satan's power and dominion over humanity. The cross disarms the spiritual forces of evil (Colossians 2:15), marking the beginning of his ultimate downfall and eventual binding (Revelation 20:2).
  • Christ's Victory: Far from being a victim, Jesus asserts His triumph. His death is the means by which He draws all people to Himself (John 12:32), demonstrating His authority and securing salvation.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "judgment" is krisis (κρίσις), which implies a decisive turning point, a separation, or a verdict. Here, it's not merely a future condemnation but a present, active process initiated by Christ's work on the cross. The term "prince" is archōn (ἄρχων), denoting a ruler or chief, emphasizing Satan's significant, though temporary, influence over this world's systems and values. To be "cast out" (ekblēthēsetai exō) implies a forceful expulsion, a definitive removal from a position of authority.

Practical Application

This verse offers profound assurance to believers. We live in a world where evil often seems to dominate, but John 12:31 reminds us that the decisive battle has already been won. Through Christ's sacrifice, the power of Satan over humanity has been broken, and his ultimate defeat is certain. This truth empowers us to live free from fear and to stand firm against spiritual opposition, knowing that the "prince of this world" is a defeated foe. It also calls us to align ourselves with God's kingdom, which has triumphed over the world's judgment and its dark ruler.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 4:4

    In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

  • 1 John 3:8

    He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

  • 1 John 5:19

    [And] we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.

  • John 14:30

    Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.

  • Ephesians 6:12

    For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places].

  • Revelation 20:2

    And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years,

  • Revelation 20:3

    And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.
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