Condemnation of the Ruler of this World

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Sixth  Week :  Tuesday*

*Gospel : Jn 16:5-11*

*First Reading : Acts 16:22-34*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 7c-8*

*Condemnation of the Ruler of this World*

Jesus says *the ruler of this world has been condemned.*

*1) Who is the “ruler of this world”?*

In this context, the *“ruler of this world”* refers to Satan, the devil. Jesus uses this title multiple times:

John 12:31 – *“Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out.”*

John 14:30 – “...*the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me.”*

Satan is called the   *“ruler”* because of the influence and power he exercises over worldly systems, sinful tendencies, and rebellion against God. 

He tempts, deceives, and works against God’s kingdom.

*2) Who will condemn him?*

God, through Jesus Christ, condemns Satan.

This judgment is accomplished:

*At the Cross* – where Jesus disarmed spiritual rulers and authorities (Colossians 2:15).

*Through Christ’s resurrection* – affirming Jesus’ victory over sin and death.

Ultimately, *at the final judgment* – where Satan will be thrown into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10)

*3) Why will the condemnation take place?*

Satan is condemned because:

He rebelled against God and sought to lead humanity into sin (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:12-17 – traditionally seen as symbolic of Satan).

He accuses and opposes the people of God (Revelation 12:10).

He seeks to destroy, deceive, and dominate the world (John 10:10; 1 Peter 5:8).

God’s holiness, justice, and plan of salvation demand that evil and its source be judged and defeated

*4) Victory in Christ: Jesus’*

Death and resurrection are not only about forgiving sin but defeating Satan. 

This gives believers confidence that evil does not have the final word (1 John 3:8 – “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.”).

*5) Already but not yet*

 The ruler of this world is condemned—the verdict has been given—but the final sentence is still to be executed. 

Christians live in this “in-between” time, resisting evil while hoping in the final triumph of Christ.

*6) Spiritual warfare*

 Christians must remain vigilant (Ephesians 6:12). Though Satan’s power is broken, he still seeks to tempt and destroy.

*7) Encouragement*

Jesus’ words are meant to comfort and strengthen His disciples. 

The enemy may seem powerful, but his fate is sealed. 

We follow the true King who reigns forever.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*