16:10 16:10

John 16:11

16:12 16:12

Bible Versions

Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
Of {G4012}{G1161} judgment {G2920}, because {G3754} the prince {G758} of this {G5127} world {G2889} is judged {G2919}.
about judgment, in that the ruler of this world has been judged.
and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world has been condemned.
of judgment, because the prince of this world hath been judged.

John 16:11 is part of Jesus' profound Farewell Discourse to His disciples, where He explains the crucial work of the Holy Spirit after His departure. This verse specifically addresses the third aspect of the Spirit's conviction of the world: "of judgment."

Context

Leading up to this verse, Jesus promises the coming of the Comforter, the Holy Spirit. In John 16:8, He states that the Spirit will "reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." Verses 9 and 10 elaborate on sin and righteousness, respectively. Verse 11 then focuses on judgment, clarifying that this judgment is directed at "the prince of this world."

Key Themes

  • The Holy Spirit's Convicting Work: The Spirit reveals fundamental spiritual truths to the world, including the reality of divine judgment. This conviction isn't just condemnation but an exposure of truth designed to lead to repentance and understanding.
  • Satan's Decisive Defeat: The phrase "the prince of this world" refers to Satan, who holds temporary sway over the fallen world system (2 Corinthians 4:4, Ephesians 2:2). Jesus declares that this powerful adversary "is judged." This judgment was decisively accomplished through Christ's death and resurrection, where He triumphed over principalities and powers.
  • God's Ultimate Sovereignty: Despite Satan's influence, God remains sovereign. The judgment of the "prince of this world" underscores God's ultimate authority and justice, assuring believers that evil does not have the final word.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek phrase for "prince of this world" is archōn tou kosmou toutou. Archōn denotes a ruler or chief, highlighting Satan's dominion over the unregenerate world. The verb "is judged" is kekritai, which is in the perfect passive indicative tense. This grammatical form signifies a completed action with continuing results. It means Satan has already been judged, and that judgment stands as a settled fact. This isn't a future judgment (though his final punishment is yet to come, as seen in Revelation 20:10), but a present reality established by Christ's victory on the cross.

Reflection and Application

For believers, this verse offers immense comfort and confidence. Knowing that "the prince of this world is judged" means that Satan's power is broken, and his ultimate defeat is assured. This truth empowers Christians to resist his schemes, live in freedom from fear, and walk in the victory that Christ has already secured. It reminds us that while evil may persist, its reign is temporary and its end is certain. The Holy Spirit continues to convict the world of this profound truth, inviting all to accept Christ's triumph and escape the dominion of darkness.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • John 12:31

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

  • 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.

  • Colossians 2:15

    [And] having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

  • Hebrews 2:14

    ¶ Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

  • John 14:30

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

  • 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.

  • Revelation 12:7

    And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels,
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