The theme of plots against one's life is a recurring motif in the Bible, reflecting the struggles and adversities faced by God's people throughout biblical history. These plots often serve as a backdrop for demonstrating God's providence, protection, and the ultimate triumph of His will.

Old Testament Instances

1. David and Saul: One of the most notable plots against a life in the Old Testament is King Saul's relentless pursuit of David. Saul, consumed by jealousy and fear of losing his throne, sought to kill David on multiple occasions. Despite Saul's efforts, God protected David, who would eventually become king. In 1 Samuel 19:1, Saul explicitly orders his servants and Jonathan to kill David: "Now Saul told his son Jonathan and all his servants to kill David."

2. Joseph and His Brothers: Joseph's brothers plotted to kill him out of envy for his favored status with their father, Jacob, and his prophetic dreams. Instead of killing him, they sold him into slavery, which ultimately led to Joseph's rise to power in Egypt. This account, found in Genesis 37, illustrates how God can use even the evil intentions of others for His greater purpose.

3. Elijah and Jezebel: After Elijah's victory over the prophets of Baal, Queen Jezebel sought to take his life. In 1 Kings 19:2, Jezebel sends a messenger to Elijah, saying, "So may the gods do to me, and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow." Elijah flees for his life, but God sustains and encourages him.

New Testament Instances

1. Jesus Christ: The most significant plot to take a life in the New Testament is the conspiracy against Jesus Christ. Religious leaders, feeling threatened by His teachings and growing influence, plotted to kill Him. This plot culminated in His crucifixion, an event central to Christian faith as it fulfilled God's redemptive plan. In Matthew 26:4, it is recorded, "And they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him."

2. Paul the Apostle: The Apostle Paul faced numerous plots against his life due to his fervent preaching of the Gospel. In Acts 23:12-13, a group of more than forty Jews bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul. However, God intervened, and Paul was informed of the plot, allowing him to escape harm.

Theological Implications

The plots against the lives of God's servants highlight the reality of spiritual warfare and the opposition faced by those who follow God's will. These narratives underscore the sovereignty of God, who can thwart human schemes and use them to accomplish His divine purposes. They also serve as a reminder of the cost of discipleship and the faith required to trust in God's protection and plan.

Practical Application

Believers today can draw encouragement from these biblical accounts, trusting that God is in control even when faced with threats or adversities. The assurance of God's presence and protection provides strength to endure trials and remain faithful to His calling. As Romans 8:31 affirms, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"