In the biblical narrative, conspiracy and assassination are themes that emerge in various contexts, often highlighting the moral and spiritual struggles of individuals and nations. These acts are typically portrayed as contrary to God's will, reflecting the fallen nature of humanity and the complexities of political and personal power struggles.

Old Testament Instances

1. Abimelech's Rise to Power (Judges 9): Abimelech, the son of Gideon, conspired to become king by eliminating his seventy brothers, the sons of Jerubbaal (Gideon). He hired reckless men to kill them, sparing only Jotham, the youngest. This act of fratricide was a clear violation of God's commandments and led to Abimelech's eventual downfall. The narrative illustrates the destructive nature of ambition and the divine justice that ultimately prevails. Judges 9:56-57 states, "In this way God repaid the wickedness that Abimelech had done to his father by murdering his seventy brothers. And God also brought all the wickedness of the men of Shechem back upon their own heads."

2. David and Saul (1 Samuel 18-24): King Saul's jealousy of David led to multiple conspiracies to kill him. Despite Saul's attempts, David consistently refrained from retaliating against the Lord's anointed. This narrative contrasts the righteousness of David with the paranoia and disobedience of Saul, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's timing and justice.

3. The Assassination of Ish-bosheth (2 Samuel 4): After the death of Saul, Ish-bosheth, Saul's son, became king over Israel. Two of his captains, Rechab and Baanah, conspired to kill him, hoping to gain favor with David. However, David condemned their treachery, demonstrating his respect for God's anointed and his commitment to justice. David's response in 2 Samuel 4:11 underscores this: "How much more, when wicked men have killed an innocent man in his own house and on his own bed, should I not now require his blood from your hand and remove you from the earth!"

New Testament Context

1. The Plot Against Jesus (Matthew 26:3-4): The chief priests and elders conspired to arrest Jesus by stealth and kill Him. This conspiracy was a fulfillment of prophecy and part of God's redemptive plan, yet it highlights the religious leaders' blindness and rejection of the Messiah. Matthew 26:3-4 records, "At that time the chief priests and elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, and they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him."

2. The Conspiracy Against Paul (Acts 23:12-15): More than forty Jews formed a conspiracy, vowing not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul. This plot was thwarted by Paul's nephew, who informed the Roman commander. The narrative demonstrates God's providential protection over Paul and His purposes for spreading the Gospel. Acts 23:12 states, "When daylight came, the Jews formed a conspiracy and bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul."

Theological Implications

Conspiracy and assassination in the Bible often serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of divine sovereignty, justice, and human sinfulness. These acts are consistently portrayed as contrary to God's law, which commands love, justice, and respect for life. The biblical response to such acts is often one of divine retribution or redemption, underscoring the belief that God is ultimately in control and will bring about His purposes despite human wickedness.