Throughout the biblical narrative, opposing God's people often results in significant consequences, both for individuals and nations. This theme is evident from the earliest accounts in the Old Testament to the accounts in the New Testament. The Bible consistently portrays God as a protector and defender of His chosen people, and those who stand against them often face divine retribution.

Old Testament Examples

1. Pharaoh and Egypt: One of the most prominent examples is Pharaoh's opposition to the Israelites in the Book of Exodus. Despite numerous warnings and plagues, Pharaoh's heart remained hardened against releasing the Israelites from bondage. As a result, Egypt suffered devastating plagues, culminating in the death of the firstborn (Exodus 12:29-30). The final act of defiance led to the destruction of Pharaoh's army in the Red Sea (Exodus 14:28).

2. The Amalekites: The Amalekites' attack on the Israelites shortly after their exodus from Egypt resulted in a divine curse. God declared perpetual war against Amalek, stating, "I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven" (Exodus 17:14). This enmity continued through Israel's history, culminating in their defeat by King Saul and later by King David.

3. Korah's Rebellion: In Numbers 16, Korah and his followers challenged the leadership of Moses and Aaron. Their opposition was met with severe consequences as the earth opened up and swallowed them, demonstrating God's direct intervention in defending His appointed leaders (Numbers 16:31-33).

4. The Canaanite Nations: The inhabitants of Canaan, who opposed Israel's entrance into the Promised Land, faced destruction. God commanded the Israelites to conquer these nations, as their iniquity had reached its full measure (Deuteronomy 9:4-5). The fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) and the defeat of other Canaanite cities illustrate the consequences of resisting God's plan for His people.

New Testament Examples

1. Herod Agrippa I: In Acts 12, King Herod Agrippa I persecuted the early church, executing James and imprisoning Peter. His opposition to the apostles and his acceptance of blasphemous praise led to his sudden death, as "an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died" (Acts 12:23).

2. Saul of Tarsus: Before his conversion, Saul (later Paul) was a fierce persecutor of Christians. On the road to Damascus, he encountered the risen Christ, who asked, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?" (Acts 9:4). This encounter dramatically transformed Saul, illustrating that opposition to God's people is ultimately opposition to God Himself.

3. The Jewish Leaders: The religious leaders who opposed Jesus and His followers faced the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. Jesus prophesied this event, warning of the consequences of rejecting Him as the Messiah (Luke 19:41-44).

Theological Implications

The biblical accounts of those who opposed God's people underscore the principle that God is sovereign and protective over His chosen ones. The consequences faced by those who resist His will serve as a warning and a testament to God's justice and faithfulness. The Scriptures affirm that God will vindicate His people and that opposition to them is ultimately futile. As the Apostle Paul writes, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31).