Over the last two days, we have seen how the Holy Spirit convicts sinners of their sin, a vital work that only He can accomplish. We also learned that the Holy Spirit confirms a Christian's God-given righteousness, revealing to believers the truth that they are made righteous in Christ Jesus.
There is another vital aspect of the Holy Spirit's work. In John 16:8-11, we read Jesus' words: "And when He [the Holy Spirit] comes, he will convict the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment… of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged." This passage reminds us of the importance of the Holy Spirit in reminding us that, despite Satan's apparent control, his ultimate fate is already sealed, and his downfall is inevitable. Ultimately, he will be defeated.
When we watch the news and listen to reports about the ongoing wars between Israel and Iran, Ukraine and Russia, unrest and violence within our country, society's decline, political division and retribution, and national security concerns, it's easy to feel discouraged and even fearful about the potential consequences for our lives. Morals, laws, and even aspects of the Church are undergoing rapid changes. Focusing on these changes can quickly lead to despair and hopelessness.
We are not hopeless! In John 14:26, Jesus promised that the Father would send the Holy Spirit in His name to teach us and help us remember all His teachings. The Holy Spirit serves as a constant reminder that despite the challenges and tribulations we may face in this world, Jesus has already conquered them (John 16:33). He reminds us that the "ruler of this world is judged" (John 16:11). The Holy Spirit continuously reinforces this truth and helps us hold onto it. He reminds us of the authority Jesus has given us over all the power of the enemy and that nothing will harm us (Luke 10:19). Until the end, we can exercise that authority by faith and fight the enemy with the peace that comes from our righteousness. Satan will not prevail because his judgment has already been decided.
The Greek word Jesus used when he referred to Satan as "the ruler of this world" is "archon." This word signifies "a title used to describe a ruler within a specific realm" (Strong's Exhaustive Concordance). The word "world" is derived from the Greek word "kosmos," and although it is commonly associated with the earth, solar systems, and the universe, this Greek term has a broader meaning.
The term "kosmos" in John 16:11 refers to the world and its culture and system in which humanity operates. It encompasses government, education, entertainment, and every area Satan influences. Paul used this same word in 2 Corinthians 4:4 to describe Satan as the "god of this world." Satan is the ruler of an ill-fated civilization and doomed system that currently dominates every aspect of this world.
The word "judged" originates from the Greek word "krino," which signifies a decision reached after careful consideration. An example of this would be a verdict reached by a court of law. Once a decision is made, there is no room for further debate; the verdict is final. The announcement of Satan's judgment is all that remains. Until that time, the Holy Spirit's role is to convince us that Satan is condemned without the possibility of escape from the final destruction awaiting Him.
Jesus is Lord of ALL, and everything we see and hear happening in this world will not last. Christ completely defeated Satan through His death on the Cross and His resurrection. It is only a matter of time until Jesus returns, and the judgment Satan has received is announced.
When wars, rumors of wars, societal unrest, and the horrors you see and hear tempt you to despair, that is when you must ask the Holy Spirit to remind you that Satan, the ruler of this world, is judged, and you have authority over him. The Holy Spirit will lead you to a place of unwavering conviction, free from any doubt, that the end of Satan's reign is near and you are empowered to live victoriously until that time. Until Jesus returns, exercise the authority Jesus has given you over all the works of the enemy. Stand tall with your head held high, fighting the good fight of faith. Embrace the truth and find peace in the knowledge that you are on the side that ultimately triumphs. Jesus has conquered the world.
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