John 12:31
Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
Original Language Analysis
νῦν
Now
G3568
νῦν
Now
Strong's:
G3568
Word #:
1 of 14
"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate
κρίσις
the judgment
G2920
κρίσις
the judgment
Strong's:
G2920
Word #:
2 of 14
decision (subjectively or objectively, for or against); by extension, a tribunal; by implication, justice (especially, divine law)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κόσμου
world
G2889
κόσμου
world
Strong's:
G2889
Word #:
5 of 14
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
νῦν
Now
G3568
νῦν
Now
Strong's:
G3568
Word #:
7 of 14
"now" (as adverb of date, a transition or emphasis); also as noun or adjective present or immediate
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
κόσμου
world
G2889
κόσμου
world
Strong's:
G2889
Word #:
11 of 14
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:4In 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.1 John 3:8He 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.1 John 5:19And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.John 14:30Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.Ephesians 6:12For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.Hebrews 2:14Forasmuch 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;Colossians 2:15And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.1 John 4:4Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.Matthew 12:28But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.Genesis 3:15And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.
Historical Context
Satan as 'prince of this world' appears elsewhere in John (14:30; 16:11). Jewish apocalyptic literature anticipated Messiah's victory over evil powers. Jesus identifies the cross as that decisive battle.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the cross judge both the world and Satan?
- What does Satan's 'casting out' mean practically for believers?
- In what ways does apparent defeat become God's victory pattern?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus announces 'now is the judgment of this world,' identifying the cross as cosmic courtroom. The crucifixion paradoxically judges the world while judging the sinless Judge. Satan ('the prince of this world') will be 'cast out,' his defeat accomplished through Christ's death. This demonstrates Christus Victor atonement—the cross defeats Satan, disarms principalities (Col 2:15), and liberates captives. The ruler's casting out doesn't mean elimination but defeat—his authority over believers breaks. The cross inverts apparent reality: seeming defeat becomes victory; apparent weakness becomes power.