“When He comes, He will prove
the world to be in the wrong on three counts: sin, justice, and judgment.”
John 16:8
I have never been able to make sense of this passage, but let me try to make sense of it now through the lens of deliverance ministry. How does deliverance ministry demonstrate the world to be wrong on three counts, sin, justice, and judgment?
Sin
“In relation to sin--because they don't believe in me.” John 16:9
When the Holy Spirit came upon Jesus’ followers, Jesus’ claim that God was rebuilding the temple around Him and his followers was vindicated, simultaneously demonstrating that those who rejected Jesus were rebelling against Yahweh or were “in sin.” The Holy Spirit’s presence in believers is evident through holiness, joy, and the eviction of evil spirits.
Justice
“In relation to justice--because I'm going to the Father, and you won't see Me anymore.” John 16:10
Justice means to set things right. The justice Israel longed for was when God would establish His rule and reign, through Israel, on earth as it is in Heaven, thus banishing evil and ushering in healing and joy. When the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples, they knew Jesus had taken His seat on the throne at the right hand of the Father. And now the disciples, the renewed Israel of God, could continue the justice-bringing ministry of God with the authority of Jesus’ name. When you drive out demons, you can begin setting the world right.
Judgment
“In relation to judgment--because the ruler of this world is judged.” John 16:11
Jesus said, “if I cast out the demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.” Luke 11:20. And when the disciples returned rejoicing after casting out demons, Jesus said to them, “I saw satan falling from heaven like lightning.” Luke 10:18. As the disciples continue to preach the Gospel (the message that Jesus is Lord), heal, and cast out demons in Jesus’ name, they/we demonstrate that satan is a defeated enemy and Jesus is Lord of all.