Scheming, in the biblical context, refers to the act of devising plans or strategies, often with deceitful or malicious intent. The Bible frequently warns against such behavior, highlighting its destructive nature and the moral corruption it signifies. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word "mezimmah" is often used to describe schemes or plots, typically in a negative sense.

One of the most notable examples of scheming is found in the account of Jacob and Esau. Jacob, with the help of his mother Rebekah, devised a plan to deceive his father Isaac and steal the blessing meant for his brother Esau (Genesis 27). This act of deceit led to significant familial strife and long-term consequences for Jacob.

The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the issue of scheming, warning against the wickedness of such behavior. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things the Lord hates, including "a heart that devises wicked schemes" . This passage underscores the moral repugnance of scheming and its opposition to God's righteous standards.

In the New Testament, the Pharisees and religious leaders often engaged in scheming against Jesus. Mark 3:6 states, "Then the Pharisees went out and began plotting with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus" . Their plots were driven by jealousy and a desire to maintain their power, ultimately leading to the crucifixion of Christ.

The Apostle Paul also warns against scheming within the church. In Ephesians 4:14, he cautions believers to mature in their faith so they are not "tossed by the waves and blown around by every wind of teaching and by the clever cunning of men in their deceitful scheming" . This admonition highlights the need for discernment and spiritual maturity to resist deceitful influences.

Mob

The concept of a mob in the Bible often refers to a large, disorderly crowd driven by emotion rather than reason, frequently resulting in violence or chaos. Mobs are depicted as instruments of injustice and are often manipulated by leaders with ulterior motives.

One of the earliest examples of mob behavior is found in the account of Sodom and Gomorrah. In Genesis 19, the men of Sodom form a mob around Lot's house, demanding that he hand over his guests. This incident illustrates the lawlessness and moral depravity that can characterize mob actions.

In the New Testament, the trial and crucifixion of Jesus are marked by mob involvement. Matthew 27:20-23 describes how the chief priests and elders persuaded the crowd to demand the release of Barabbas and the crucifixion of Jesus. The crowd, acting as a mob, shouted, "Crucify Him!" , demonstrating how easily a group can be swayed to commit acts of injustice.

The Apostle Paul also encountered mob violence during his missionary journeys. In Acts 19, a riot breaks out in Ephesus instigated by silversmiths who felt threatened by Paul's teachings. The mob seized Paul's companions and filled the city with confusion, shouting, "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" (Acts 19:28). This event highlights the potential for mobs to disrupt peace and oppose the spread of the Gospel.

Throughout Scripture, mobs are portrayed as dangerous and unpredictable, often leading to unjust outcomes. The Bible encourages believers to seek justice and peace, standing firm in truth rather than being swayed by the passions of the crowd.