The term "The Plotters" refers to individuals or groups in the Bible who conspired against God's chosen leaders, His people, or His divine plans. Throughout Scripture, various narratives highlight the actions and motivations of these plotters, serving as cautionary tales of rebellion against divine authority and the futility of opposing God's will.

Old Testament Examples

1. Joseph's Brothers: One of the earliest examples of plotters in the Bible is found in the account of Joseph. Driven by jealousy, Joseph's brothers conspired to kill him but ultimately sold him into slavery. Genesis 37:18-20 states, "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 has devoured him. Then we will see what becomes of his dreams!'"

2. Korah's Rebellion: In Numbers 16, Korah, along with Dathan, Abiram, and others, plotted against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership. This rebellion was not merely against human authority but against God's chosen leaders. Numbers 16:3 records their challenge: "They came together against Moses and Aaron and told them, 'You have gone too far! All the congregation is holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them. Why then do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?'"

3. Haman's Plot: In the Book of Esther, Haman, an official in the Persian Empire, plotted to annihilate the Jewish people. His plan was thwarted by Queen Esther's bravery and God's providence. Esther 3:6 reveals Haman's intent: "And when he learned the identity of Mordecai’s people, he scorned the idea of laying hands on Mordecai alone. Instead, he sought to destroy all the Jews, Mordecai’s people, throughout the kingdom of Xerxes."

New Testament Examples

1. The Pharisees and Sadducees: Throughout the Gospels, the religious leaders frequently plotted against Jesus, seeking to undermine His ministry and ultimately orchestrate His death. Matthew 12:14 notes, "But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus."

2. Judas Iscariot: Perhaps the most infamous plotter in the New Testament, Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. His actions were a fulfillment of prophecy and a pivotal moment in the Passion narrative. Matthew 26:14-16 states, "Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and asked, 'What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?' And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. So from that time on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus."

3. The Sanhedrin's Conspiracy: After the resurrection of Lazarus, the chief priests and Pharisees convened the Sanhedrin to plot Jesus' death, fearing the loss of their power and influence. John 11:53 records, "So from that day on they plotted to kill Him."

Theological Implications

The actions of the plotters in the Bible underscore the themes of human sinfulness, the sovereignty of God, and the ultimate triumph of His purposes. Despite the schemes of men, God's plans prevail, and His justice is ultimately served. The narratives of the plotters serve as a reminder of the dangers of pride, jealousy, and rebellion against divine authority, while also highlighting God's redemptive power and the fulfillment of His promises.