Sermon – Evil Does Not Have the Last Word, May 12, 2026 – (John 16:5-11)

In today's chapter of the Gospel of John, Jesus prepares his disciples for a difficult moment: his departure. The apostles are saddened because they are only thinking of the Lord's physical absence. But Jesus explains to them that his departure is not an abandonment, but rather a necessity for the coming of the Holy Spirit.

“It is to your benefit that I go.” This may seem strange to humans. How can Jesus’ departure be good? Because when Jesus walked the earth, he was in a specific place and time. But when the Holy Spirit comes, Christ’s presence will reach all hearts and all times. The Holy Spirit will not only be with the apostles; He will live within them.

Then Jesus explains the mission of the Holy Spirit: “He will convincing the world about sin, righteousness, and judgment.” First, sin. Jesus says, “Sin is that they do not believe in me.” Here Jesus teaches us that the real sin is not just bad behavior; it is closing one's heart to God, rejecting Christ, living as if one does not need Him. All other sins stem from this lack of trust. When a person stops trusting in God, they put themselves at the center.

Then there is righteousness. The Holy Spirit will show righteousness; “for I am going to the Father.” The world’s understanding of righteousness is often based on appearances and human judgments. The world declared Jesus guilty and a failure. But the Father glorified Him with resurrection. Thus, it was revealed that true righteousness is in Christ. The Holy Spirit also guides believers to this truth: the truly righteous person is the one who is devoted to Christ.

Finally, judgment. “The ruler of this world has been judged.” Here Jesus speaks of the power of evil, of Satan. On the cross, it seemed as if evil had triumphed. But it was precisely on the cross that evil was defeated. The cross is not a defeat, but a victory for love. The Holy Spirit constantly reminds the Church: Evil Does Not Have the Last Word.

Today, this Scripture calls us to examine ourselves: In what areas of my life do I still not fully trust in Christ? Am I seeking God's righteousness or the approval of people? Do I truly believe that Christ has triumphed over evil?

Let us ask the Holy Spirit to open our hearts. May He guide us to the truth, turn us away from the sin of unbelief, and teach us to live with the certainty that Christ has conquered the world. And may the Virgin Mary always intercede for us.