How can we trust God's plan when leaders act with wrong intentions? The Scene in John 11:51 “He did not say this on his own; instead, as high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation.” (John 11:51) • Caiaphas is plotting murder, yet God turns his self-serving words into a genuine prophecy. • A corrupt leader speaks truth he himself does not grasp; the Lord purposes every syllable. God Overrides Sinful Intentions • The Lord’s plan is never derailed by human motives. • He can steer an ungodly decision to fulfill holy promises. • Caiaphas’ scheme leads directly to the cross, the very centerpiece of redemption. Scripture Echoes of Divine Override • Joseph’s brothers (Genesis 50:20) — “what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good.” • Balaam (Numbers 22–24) — hired to curse Israel, he blesses them repeatedly. • Cyrus (Isaiah 45:1–4) — a pagan king called the LORD’s “anointed” to release the exiles. • Pilate (John 19:19-22) — posts the placard “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews,” unwittingly proclaiming Messiah’s royalty. • Early church sermon (Acts 2:23) — “delivered up by God’s set plan… you put Him to death.” Reasons We Can Rest in God’s Plan • Sovereign control — “The king’s heart is a watercourse in the hand of the LORD; He directs it wherever He pleases.” (Proverbs 21:1) • Unbroken purpose — “works out everything by the counsel of His will.” (Ephesians 1:11) • Certain good — “God works all things together for the good of those who love Him.” (Romans 8:28) • Proven track record — from Genesis to Revelation, flawed leaders cannot thwart salvation history. Living This Confidence Today • Anchor daily in Scripture; let God’s record shape your view of current events. • Pray for leaders, knowing God can channel even wrong motives (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Refuse panic; moments of corruption often precede great moves of grace. • Keep obeying in your sphere; personal faithfulness aligns you with His unstoppable plan. |