What other biblical figures faced similar deceptive schemes from enemies? The Scheme at Ono: Nehemiah’s Experience “Sanballat and Geshem sent me this message: ‘Come, let us meet together in one of the villages on the plain of Ono.’ But they were planning to harm me.” (Nehemiah 6:2) Nehemiah smelled the trap, kept his focus, and the wall was finished. Deceptive Invitations and Plots in the Rest of Scripture • Adam and Eve – Genesis 3:1 “Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field… ‘Did God really say…?’” The very first humans face a subtle invitation to step away from God’s clear command. • Joshua – Joshua 9:4-6 The Gibeonites “resorted to deception,” arriving with worn-out supplies so Joshua would make a treaty. • Samson – Judges 16:5 “The lords of the Philistines went to [Delilah] and said, ‘Persuade him and find out the secret of his great strength….’” A personal relationship becomes the setting for a hidden agenda. • David – 1 Samuel 18:17-25 Saul offers his daughter in marriage, hoping “the hand of the Philistines” will kill David. An apparent honor masks deadly intent. • Daniel – Daniel 6:7-9 Officials flatter King Darius into signing a prayer ban, knowing Daniel’s faithfulness will land him in the lions’ den. • Jeremiah – Jeremiah 38:4-6 Princes accuse Jeremiah of weakening morale, persuading the king to drop him into a cistern. Political maneuvering seeks to silence God’s prophet. • Jesus – Matthew 22:15; Luke 20:20 “The Pharisees went and plotted to trap Jesus in His words.” Spies pose respectful questions, hoping to ensnare Him. • Paul – Galatians 2:4 “Some false brothers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on our freedom in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves.” Deceivers slip into the fellowship to undermine the gospel. Patterns That Stand Out • A harmless meeting, gift, or question often conceals a harmful scheme. • The enemy relies on disguise—false humility, flattery, forged credentials, or twisted words. • God’s servants discern the danger by clinging to clear revelation rather than surface appearances. • Each time, God turns the plot on its head: walls finished, lions’ mouths shut, resurrection glory, gospel advance. Living the Lesson Scripture repeatedly shows that deceptive schemes are real, yet discernment, steadfast obedience, and confidence in God’s sovereignty keep His people on course. |
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