Strategic opposition in the biblical context refers to the deliberate and calculated resistance against God's plans, His people, or His purposes. This concept is evident throughout Scripture, where various individuals, groups, and spiritual entities employ tactics to thwart divine intentions. The Bible provides numerous examples of such opposition, highlighting both human and supernatural efforts to resist God's will.

Old Testament Examples

1. Pharaoh's Resistance (Exodus 5-14): Pharaoh's opposition to God's command to let the Israelites go is a classic example of strategic opposition. Despite witnessing numerous plagues, Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he employed various strategies to keep the Israelites enslaved. His resistance culminated in the pursuit of the Israelites to the Red Sea, where God ultimately delivered His people and defeated Pharaoh's army.

2. Sanballat and Tobiah (Nehemiah 4): During the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, Nehemiah faced strategic opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and others. They mocked, threatened, and plotted against the Jews to halt the reconstruction. Nehemiah responded with prayer, vigilance, and strategic defense, ensuring the work continued despite the opposition.

3. Balaam's Counsel (Numbers 22-24; 31:16): Balaam, a prophet hired by Balak, king of Moab, to curse Israel, serves as an example of strategic opposition through spiritual manipulation. Although God prevented Balaam from cursing Israel, Balaam later advised Balak to entice the Israelites into sin, leading to their downfall.

New Testament Examples

1. Herod's Plot (Matthew 2:1-18): King Herod's attempt to kill the infant Jesus by ordering the massacre of male children in Bethlehem is a stark example of strategic opposition. Herod's fear of losing his throne led him to take drastic measures to eliminate the prophesied King of the Jews.

2. The Pharisees and Sadducees (Matthew 22:15-46): The religious leaders of Jesus' time frequently opposed Him through strategic questioning and plotting. They sought to trap Jesus in His words and discredit Him before the people. Despite their efforts, Jesus consistently outmaneuvered their schemes with wisdom and authority.

3. Judas Iscariot (Luke 22:3-6): Judas' betrayal of Jesus was a calculated act of opposition. Influenced by Satan, Judas conspired with the chief priests to hand Jesus over, setting in motion the events leading to the crucifixion. This act of betrayal was part of a larger spiritual opposition against God's redemptive plan.

Spiritual Opposition

The Bible also highlights the role of spiritual forces in strategic opposition. Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This passage underscores the reality of spiritual warfare, where demonic entities actively oppose God's purposes and His people.

1. Satan's Temptation of Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11): Satan's attempt to derail Jesus' mission through temptation in the wilderness is a prime example of strategic spiritual opposition. By offering Jesus power and glory in exchange for worship, Satan sought to divert Him from His redemptive path.

2. Paul's Thorn in the Flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7): The Apostle Paul describes a "thorn in the flesh" as a messenger of Satan sent to torment him. This opposition served to keep Paul humble and reliant on God's grace, demonstrating how God can use opposition for His purposes.

Response to Strategic Opposition

The Bible provides guidance on how believers should respond to strategic opposition. Ephesians 6:13-18 instructs believers to "put on the full armor of God" to stand firm against the devil's schemes. This includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer. By relying on God's strength and wisdom, believers can effectively counteract opposition and remain steadfast in their faith.

Throughout Scripture, strategic opposition is met with divine intervention, wisdom, and perseverance. God's sovereignty ensures that, despite opposition, His purposes ultimately prevail.