King James Version

What Does John 16:11 Mean?

John 16:11 in the King James Version says “Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” — study this verse from John chapter 16 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.”

John 16:11 · KJV

Context

9

Of sin, because they believe not on me;

10

Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;

11

Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

12

I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.

13

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

Read John 16 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged (περὶ κρίσεως δέ, ὅτι ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου τούτου κέκριται, peri kriseōs de, hoti ho archōn tou kosmou toutou kekritai)—the perfect tense kekritai (has been judged) indicates completed action with ongoing results. Satan's judgment at the cross is finished fact, though final execution awaits. The prince of this world (ὁ ἄρχων τοῦ κόσμου, ho archōn tou kosmou) appears three times in John (12:31, 14:30, 16:11).

The Spirit convicts that judgment is certain because the cross already accomplished Satan's defeat. The ruler of this evil age has been judged; therefore, those who follow him face certain doom. Conversely, believers are freed from condemnation because Christ bore the judgment we deserved. The Spirit's conviction of judgment warns the unbelieving that their rebellion is futile—the prince they serve is a defeated foe—and assures believers that no accusation can stand, for the accuser himself has been judged.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Jesus referred to Satan's judgment hours before the cross where that judgment would be executed. Colossians 2:15 describes how Christ 'disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.' Satan's power was broken at Calvary, though his final punishment awaits Revelation 20:10. The Spirit applies this finished work, convicting the world that their spiritual master stands condemned.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Satan's already-accomplished judgment at the cross give you confidence in spiritual warfare?
  2. In what ways does the Spirit's conviction of judgment serve both as warning to unbelievers and assurance to believers?
  3. How should the certainty of final judgment inform your evangelism and your daily choices?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
περὶ1 of 10

“Of”

G4012

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

δὲ2 of 10
G1161

but, and, etc

κρίσεως3 of 10

“judgment”

G2920

decision (subjectively or objectively, for or against); by extension, a tribunal; by implication, justice (especially, divine law)

ὅτι4 of 10

“because”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ὁ5 of 10
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἄρχων6 of 10

“the prince”

G758

a first (in rank or power)

τοῦ7 of 10
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κόσμου8 of 10

“world”

G2889

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

τούτου9 of 10

“of this”

G5127

of (from or concerning) this (person or thing)

κέκριται10 of 10

“is judged”

G2919

by implication, to try, condemn, punish

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

John 16:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to John 16:11 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 12:311 John 3:8John 14:30Hebrews 2:14Colossians 2:152 Corinthians 4:4

Test Your Knowledge

John 16 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterJohn Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read John 16 with CommentaryAll John ChaptersComplete John QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes