Previously, Jesus made a startling announcement to His disciples regarding the Holy Spirit. He said that the Spirit would come to not only indwell every born-again believer but also to convict the world through judgment.
The world has no true understanding of the nature of sin, but when confronted with the righteousness of Jesus, the reality of their sinfulness becomes evident. Conviction takes place when the gospel is presented in a way that each listener is brought to a place of making an intelligent decision regarding Jesus Christ. Our response to the Spirit’s conviction brings us to salvation.
Jesus continued by saying that Satan, the ruler of this world, is also judged. His condemnation has already taken place—his defeat is permanent. God promised it in Genesis 3:15, and Christ’s victory at Calvary guarantees it. I like how Colossians 2:15 puts it, “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He (Christ) made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.”
What great news! That dragon of old—the devil—has had his teeth pulled and his claws removed when it comes to God’s children! There is nothing that his arsenal can produce that might destroy you.
Each and every soul that accepts Jesus as Lord is another gem plucked from the devil’s black bag. The pretend ruler of this world is nothing more than a usurper and fraud. Let us treat him as the judged enemy and conquered foe that he is. Onward Christian soldier!
Awaiting His return,
– Pastor Jack
