by esther phinias | 10 September 2025 08:46 pm09
Did you know that the judgment of the devil has already been passed? Understanding this truth is crucial so that we are not deceived into living in sin or being paralyzed by fear.
1. Satan’s Judgment is Final
John 16:11 (ESV)
concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.
Jesus clearly states that Satan—the ruler of this fallen world—has already been judged. His sentence is final, and he will never stand trial again. The Greek word for “judged” (krinō) indicates that the verdict is decisive and irrevocable. Satan’s rebellion has already been fully accounted for in God’s eternal justice.
2. Satan’s Crime Was Rebellion, Not Deception
Many mistakenly assume that Satan’s punishment is because of deceiving mankind. In reality, the primary reason for his eternal condemnation was his prideful rebellion in heaven.
Isaiah 14:12–15 (ESV)
How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! For you have said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God… I will make myself like the Most High.
Satan’s desire to overthrow God’s authority led to his expulsion. Revelation 12:7–9 confirms that he was cast out with his angels, and their fate was sealed in the lake of fire, prepared specifically for them before mankind was even created.
Matthew 25:41 (NASB)
Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’
Notice carefully: the lake of fire was originally prepared for Satan and his angels, not for humans. Yet, those who choose to follow him and reject God’s authority will share his fate.
3. Satan’s Work Continues, But His Judgment is Set
The fact that Satan continues to deceive and destroy does not mean his punishment is incomplete. Theologically, this demonstrates the principle of divine justice and free will: Satan’s judgment is complete, yet God allows him a measure of activity to test humanity (cf. Job 1:6–12; 1 Peter 5:8).
Even if he causes destruction, his punishment will not increase. His role in the world serves as both a warning and a testing ground for human obedience.
4. Humans Will Stand Alone Before God
On the Day of Judgment, it is humans who will be accountable for their deeds.
Revelation 20:11–15 (ESV)
Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it… and the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done… Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.
Notice: Satan is not present on that day to be questioned; he has no excuses, and his case is closed. Humans, however, will stand individually and answer for their choices. Our sin is our responsibility; blaming the devil will not save us.
5. The Call to Repentance
This reality calls for urgent repentance. Each person must take responsibility for their life before it is too late.
Ecclesiastes 12:7 (ESV)
and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.
Time is limited. The devil’s power is real, but it is restricted by God’s sovereignty. Repent today, surrender your life to Jesus Christ, and walk in holiness. God’s grace is sufficient, and His Spirit empowers believers to resist the schemes of the devil (cf. Ephesians 6:10–18; James 4:7).
Key Theological Takeaways:
1. Satan’s eternal judgment is fixed; he cannot be redeemed.
2. The lake of fire was prepared for him and his angels before humanity existed.
3. Satan’s deception does not add to his punishment—it only fulfills God’s testing purposes.
4. Humans are individually accountable before God and will be judged according to their deeds.
5. Repentance and surrender to Christ are the only ways to escape judgment and share in Christ
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2025/09/10/the-ruler-of-this-world-has-already-been-judged/
Copyright ©2025 Wingu la Mashahidi unless otherwise noted.