John 16:11 (KJV)

What does John 16:11 mean?

John 16:11 says that judgment is coming because the "prince of this world"—a phrase referring to the devil or Satan—has already been judged. This means that evil's power has been decisively dealt with, and its defeat is certain.

Jesus is speaking to his disciples shortly before his arrest, explaining what the Holy Spirit will do after Jesus leaves. In this verse, Jesus assures them that the final outcome over evil is not in doubt; the ruler of this world has already been condemned in God’s eyes, showing that God’s justice will prevail.

The Greek behind John 16:11

• "judgment" (κρίσις, krisis): This Greek word means a legal decision or verdict. Here, it points to a decisive act of justice, not just a general sense of judgment.
• "prince" (ἄρχων, archōn): This term means a ruler or leader. In this context, it refers to the spiritual power behind the world’s opposition to God.
• "world" (κόσμος, kosmos): This word often means the organized system of human society apart from God. Here, it highlights that the "prince" rules over a world in rebellion.
• "judged" (κέκριται, kekritai): This verb is in a form that means the judgment has already happened and its effects continue. It stresses that the defeat of the "prince" is not just future but already accomplished in a decisive way.

Why John 16:11 matters

• John 16:11 clears up the idea that evil is still in control; Jesus says the real power behind evil is already judged, so the outcome is not uncertain.
• This verse connects to Jesus’ larger teaching about the Holy Spirit’s role: the Spirit will show the world that God’s justice is real and that evil’s defeat is settled.
• Understanding this verse helps readers see that Jesus’ death and resurrection are not just about personal salvation but also about the cosmic victory over evil.