Trust God's plan despite flawed leaders?
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.

How does John 11:51 connect to Isaiah's prophecies about the Messiah?
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