Definition and Context:
Rage and plotting are often interconnected themes in the Bible, representing intense anger and the scheming of plans, typically against God or His anointed. These themes are frequently depicted as characteristics of the wicked or those who oppose God's will.

Biblical Instances:

1. Psalm 2:1-3 · "Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together, against the LORD and against His Anointed One: 'Let us break Their chains and cast away Their cords.'" This passage illustrates the futility of human rage and plotting against God's sovereign plan. The psalmist highlights the rebellion of earthly powers against divine authority, emphasizing that such efforts are ultimately in vain.

2. Acts 4:25-26 · In the New Testament, the early church references Psalm 2 in their prayer, acknowledging the fulfillment of this prophecy in the opposition faced by Jesus and His followers: "You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of Your servant, our father David: 'Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against His Anointed One.'"

3. Proverbs 29:22 · "An angry man stirs up dissension, and a hot-tempered man abounds in transgression." This proverb warns against the destructive nature of rage, which leads to conflict and sin. It serves as a cautionary note about the personal and communal consequences of unchecked anger.

4. Genesis 37:18-20 · The account of Joseph and his brothers provides a narrative example of plotting driven by rage and jealousy. "When Joseph’s brothers saw him coming, they recognized him from a distance. And before he arrived, they plotted to kill him. 'Here comes that dreamer!' they said to one another. 'Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits. We can say that a vicious animal devoured him. Then we will see what becomes of his dreams.'" This account demonstrates how rage can lead to malicious plotting, yet God's providence ultimately prevails.

5. Esther 3:5-6 · Haman's rage against Mordecai leads to a plot to destroy all the Jews in the Persian Empire: "When Haman saw that Mordecai would not kneel or pay him honor, he was filled with rage. And when he learned the identity of Mordecai’s people, he scorned the idea of killing only Mordecai. Instead, Haman sought to destroy all the Jews, the people of Mordecai, throughout the whole kingdom of Xerxes." This narrative highlights the extent to which rage can escalate into widespread evil plans.

Theological Implications:

Rage and plotting are often depicted as manifestations of human sinfulness and rebellion against God. They reflect a heart that is not aligned with God's purposes and are frequently associated with pride, jealousy, and a desire for control. The Bible consistently portrays such actions as ultimately futile against the backdrop of God's sovereign will. Believers are called to trust in God's justice and to refrain from taking matters into their own hands through anger or scheming.

Moral and Ethical Teachings:

Scripture admonishes believers to avoid rage and plotting, encouraging them instead to pursue peace, patience, and trust in God's righteous judgment. Ephesians 4:26-27 advises, "Be angry, yet do not sin. Do not let the sun set upon your anger, and do not give the devil a foothold." This teaching underscores the importance of managing anger in a way that does not lead to sin or give room for the enemy to work.

Conclusion:

While rage and plotting are common human responses to perceived threats or injustices, the Bible calls for a different approach—one that seeks God's wisdom and peace. Through the examples and teachings found in Scripture, believers are encouraged to surrender their anger and plans to God, trusting in His ultimate authority and justice.