How God Uses Evil People for His Will: Biblical Insights and Modern Reflections

What does it mean when the Bible says God uses evil people to fulfill His will? It’s a tough question, but one that Scripture doesn’t shy away from. Throughout history, God has worked through the most unexpected individuals—both righteous and wicked—to bring His plans to life. From Pharaoh’s hardened heart in Exodus to Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus, examples abound of God steering events through people who didn’t necessarily follow Him. Why? Because God’s will prevails, even when human intentions are far from holy.

But here’s where it gets even more interesting: sometimes, those moments of divine intervention lead to incredible transformations. Think of Nineveh’s repentance after Jonah’s reluctant mission or the countless lives changed through observing God’s justice and mercy. Fast forward to modern times, and we’re still asking these questions. How do leaders like Donald Trump or Joe Biden align—or conflict—with God’s will? And what about the laws they’ve influenced?

This journey explores the patterns in Scripture and beyond, the outcomes of God’s work through “unlikely” people, and what that means for us today. To learn about how God’s love transforms even the darkest circumstances, visit this resource. Let’s walk through this together, one verse and one example at a time.

Occurrences When God Used Evil People to Fulfill His Will

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Bible is how God achieves His will through people who seem utterly opposed to His plans. From hard-hearted rulers to treacherous friends, Scripture is filled with stories of individuals whose actions—while driven by selfish or evil motives—ultimately fall into the divine plan. This might make us pause and ask: Why and how does God use someone unwilling or even downright hostile to Him as an instrument of His will? Let’s examine three instances where this has been explicitly demonstrated in Scripture.

Pharaoh’s Resistance During the Exodus

In the history of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, Pharaoh plays a central role, but not as a hero. He is remembered for his defiance toward God, wilfully rejecting Moses’ plea to let the Israelites go free. Interestingly, the Bible says numerous times that God hardened Pharaoh’s heart (Exodus 9:12, 10:1). This wasn’t just coincidence; God specifically allowed Pharaoh’s stubborn nature to intensify so His power could be unmistakably displayed.

How did this work out in God’s larger plan? Pharaoh’s repeated refusal to release the Israelites set up the stage for the famous plagues over Egypt. Each plague acted as a direct challenge to Egypt’s gods, showcasing the one true God’s authority over all creation. But it didn’t stop there—Pharaoh’s resistance culminated in the Red Sea incident, where God not only delivered Israel from slavery but destroyed Egypt’s army, leaving a lasting mark on history. The result? The Israelites grew in faith and awe for God, while the Egyptians were left to acknowledge His supreme power.

This isn’t an isolated lesson. It reminds us that even in opposition, God’s sovereign plan will come to pass. Need more examples of God teaching us perseverance? Explore lessons on Finding Joy in Fiery Trials 101: A Biblical Guide to Faith and Hope.

Nebuchadnezzar as God’s Instrument

Perhaps one of the most striking examples of God using a ruler far removed from Him is King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. In the Book of Jeremiah, God actually refers to Nebuchadnezzar as “My servant” (Jeremiah 27:6). Can you imagine? This wasn’t a devout believer doing God’s will out of reverence; this was a prideful, pagan king bent on expanding his empire.

God used Nebuchadnezzar to discipline His people, Israel. The Babylonian exile wasn’t a random event—it was a consequence of Israel’s disobedience and idolatry. Through Nebuchadnezzar’s military campaigns, God uprooted His people but also laid the groundwork for repentance and spiritual renewal. Ultimately, the exiled Jews came to realize the gravity of straying from God, leading to a collective transformation upon their return to Jerusalem.

What’s even more fascinating is how this affected the king himself. In Daniel 4:34-37, Nebuchadnezzar eventually acknowledged God’s sovereignty after being humbled through losing his sanity. It’s a testament to how God not only uses individuals to fulfill His plans for others but can also work in their hearts in the process.

Judas Iscariot’s Role in Jesus’ Betrayal

It’s hard to think of a person whose actions seem more evil than Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus Christ. Yet, this event didn’t catch God by surprise. Long before it happened, prophecy had already declared that one close to Jesus would betray Him (Psalm 41:9). Judas played a specific role in what was ultimately God’s plan to save humanity.

When Judas conspired with the religious leaders and handed Jesus over for 30 pieces of silver, his motives were far from pure. However, this act set into motion the chain of events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. In this moment of unimaginable betrayal, God’s will was being accomplished—redemption for a fallen world.

The betrayal by Judas for 30 pieces of silver wasn’t random—it was fulfillment of prophecy, plain and simple. The Old Testament, specifically Zechariah 11:12-13, talks about thirty pieces of silver being the price for a shepherd who’s rejected. It even mentions the money being thrown into the potter’s house, which seems oddly specific, doesn’t it?

Fast forward to the New Testament, and that’s exactly what happens. Judas agrees to betray Jesus for, you guessed it, 30 pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16). Later, overcome with regret, he throws the silver back into the temple, and the religious leaders use it to buy the potter’s field (Matthew 27:3-10). Think about that: hundreds of years before Judas was even born, his actions were already part of the script. Coincidence? Not likely. It’s a clear example of God showing His sovereignty and how His plans unfold exactly as foretold.

For Judas himself, the story is tragic as he chose not to believe in Jesus’ mercy and forgiveness. But on a larger scale, the result of his actions was monumental: billions of lives transformed over millennia as the world learned of Christ’s sacrifice. Looking at Judas as a part of God’s bigger picture teaches us that even in pain, God is working for ultimate good.

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By analyzing each of these events, we see a repeated pattern in God’s dealings with humanity. Whether it’s a stubborn ruler, a prideful king, or a faithless friend, nothing and no one is outside the purview of God’s will. To better understand how God shapes history for His purposes, explore Biblical principles of His love and justice.

Instances of Repentance and Transformation

Throughout history, both Scriptural and contemporary, there are extraordinary stories where repentance and transformation emerged as a direct result of God’s intervention. These events often involved individuals or entire communities, some of whom were considered far from righteous, experiencing a profound change of heart. Let’s examine two powerful examples from Scripture that demonstrate how God’s will often leads to astonishing moments of repentance and transformation.

Nineveh’s Repentance at Jonah’s Warning

The story of Jonah and Nineveh is one of the Bible’s most striking examples of mass repentance. Jonah, a reluctant prophet, was tasked by God to go to the city of Nineveh and declare its impending destruction. Initially, Jonah resisted God’s will, choosing instead to flee from the task. Why? Nineveh was the capital of Assyria, a nation known for its brutality against the Jewish people, and Jonah, who was a Jew, viewed its destruction as well-deserved. But God had other plans.

Upon Jonah’s eventual arrival in Nineveh—after a detour in the belly of a great fish—he delivered a simple sermon: “Forty days and Nineveh shall be overthrown!” (Jonah 3:4). What happened next was nothing short of miraculous. From the king to the common people, the entire city humbled themselves, fasting and putting on sackcloth as a sign of repentance (Jonah 3:5-7). Even the animals were included in this act of humility!

But why did this resonate with the Ninevites so profoundly? It wasn’t just Jonah’s words; it was the power of God working through him. The city’s repentance was so complete that God relented from bringing destruction upon them (Jonah 3:10). This event highlights a recurring theme in Scripture: when people humble themselves before God, even the most unlikely can be saved. Interested in exploring how repentance changes our lives today? Check out this inspiring resource on repentance.

The Apostle Paul: From Persecutor to Preacher

Few Biblical figures embody the transformative power of repentance as vividly as the Apostle Paul. Before his dramatic conversion, Paul—then known as Saul—was a zealous persecutor of Christians. He believed he was doing God’s will by imprisoning and even endorsing the killing of Jesus’ followers. His reputation among early Christians was so fearsome that many of them trembled at the mere mention of his name.

But everything changed on the road to Damascus. Paul was struck by a blinding light and heard the voice of Jesus saying, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” (Acts 9:4). This wasn’t just a moment of conviction; it was an encounter with the risen Christ that completely upended his worldview. Paul repented, was baptized, and received the Holy Spirit, transforming from a persecutor of the faith to one of its most passionate advocates (Acts 9:17-18).

Paul’s transformation had profound and far-reaching implications. Through his ministry, countless lives were changed, churches were established, and much of the New Testament was written. His story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Want to learn more about turning past sins into victories? Explore insights on The Church in History: Tracing Christianity’s 1st Astonishing Roots for Modern Believers.

These examples from Scripture show that repentance and transformation can happen in the most unexpected ways. Whether it’s an entire city like Nineveh or an individual like Paul, God’s will remains constant—inviting us to return to Him and walk in His purpose.

Modern Examples: Leaders and Policies

When discussing how God’s will intersects with human leadership, it’s vital to consider specific policies and actions that reflect alignment—or conflict—with Biblical teachings. Leaders, whether they fully understand it or not, can serve as instruments in God’s greater plan. Let’s look at modern examples of this dynamic through the presidencies of Donald Trump, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden.

Donald Trump’s Policy Reforms in Line with Biblical Principles

Donald Trump’s presidency has stirred and is stirring ongoing debates about the intersection of faith, governance, and morality. Whether you agree with his personal conduct or not, some of his policies mirrored Biblical values. For instance, defending religious freedoms became a cornerstone of his administration. His Executive Order on Promoting Free Speech and Religious Liberty was aimed at removing barriers for faith-based organizations, allowing them to exercise their beliefs freely in various arenas such as education and disaster relief. Learn more about one such initiative.

The pro-life movement also gained momentum during Trump’s tenure. He instated rules that restricted federal funding for organizations that provide abortions, aligning with the Biblical value of protecting life—a value many Christians advocate passionately. You can find out what God says about abortion here.

Trump’s administration often pointed to moral and spiritual underpinnings as motivations behind such decisive actions. Additionally, Trump’s decision to move the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem resonated deeply with evangelical Christians, as Jerusalem holds a significant place in Biblical prophecy. This event was also foretold in Scripture. Watch this video to find out how and when.

However, Trump’s leadership in his first term wasn’t without criticism, even among Christians. Some argued that his rhetoric and behavior fell short of Biblical ideals. At his failed assassination attempt in July 2024, Trump changed. Many believe this is the point when he began to give his life fully to God.

Barack Obama’s Decisions Contravening Biblical Teachings

Barack Obama’s presidency provides a complex case when evaluating how modern leaders reflect (or diverge from) the teachings of Scripture. His support for certain issues, particularly in signing into law the Marriage Equality Act in 2015, fundamentally realigned how the federal government approached marriage. While significant for certain people, this law goes against God. We who know God do know that God is making it more difficult to believe in the truth as time goes on, making room for the fulfillment of Bible prophecy.

During Obama’s leadership, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandated that employers—including Christian organizations—provide healthcare plans covering contraception and abortion-inducing drugs. This policy led to lawsuits, notably from faith-based groups like the Little Sisters of the Poor, arguing that it infringed upon their religious beliefs. By advancing policies perceived as dismissive of Christian values, Obama’s actions were viewed by some as a departure from God’s will.

One could argue that Obama’s policies portrayed a broader compassion for humanity, such as advocating for justice and poverty alleviation. Yet tensions arose when those actions conflicted with traditional interpretations of Scripture. For more insight into Obama’s views on faith and governance, explore this resource.

Joe Biden’s Actions: A Mixed Assessment

Joe Biden, a professing Catholic, presents a mixed record when measured against Biblical principles. On the one hand, Biden has spoken openly about how his faith shapes his view of compassion and justice. He ended policies like the travel ban on predominantly Muslim countries, framing the changes as a call to uphold human dignity. Some think this approach aligns in part with Scriptural values of welcoming the stranger and caring for marginalized populations (Matthew 25:35), but that is a topic for another day. Discover more here.

However, Biden’s support for abortion sharply contrasts with Christian doctrines emphasizing the sanctity of life. His administration’s policies promoting reproductive healthcare, including expanded funding for organizations that perform abortions, continues to draw sharp rebuke from pro-life advocates and Christians who see life’s defense as foundational to God’s will. Further, Biden supported legislation aimed at expanding transgender rights, which contradict Biblical gender roles and creation principles.

Through these modern examples, it becomes clear that leaders often act in capacities that intersect with God’s overarching design, even when their personal actions may diverge from Scripture. The darkness is supposed to get more intense the closer we get to the return of Christ.

The Bible talks about how things will get darker before Christ returns. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, it says people will be lovers of themselves, money, and pleasure rather than lovers of God. It’s like a storm getting more intense before the calm.

But in Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus calls Christians the “light of the world.” So, as the world gets darker, our light should shine brighter. It’s a call for us to live out our faith more boldly, showing love, kindness, and truth. It’s not about being perfect, but about reflecting Christ’s light in a world that needs hope.

Evaluating the Impact of Evil and God’s Will Across History

Throughout history, the Bible records moments when God used evil people or actions for His purposes. These scenarios often confuse and challenge us—how can a perfect, holy God allow or use evil for good? The answer lies in understanding God’s sovereignty and the ways He orchestrates events to fulfill His ultimate plan. Let’s explore some ways this theme has unfolded across history.

The Reformation: Overcoming Corruption with Scripture

The Protestant Reformation provides a powerful example of God’s will unfolding amidst corruption. In the early 16th century, the Catholic Church was riddled with practices many considered unbiblical, such as the selling of indulgences. This era of spiritual corruption paved the way for a significant upheaval.

God raised reformers like Martin Luther, who championed the authority of Scripture over church traditions. Luther nailed his famous “95 Theses” to the Wittenberg church door in 1517, challenging the practices that contradicted Biblical teaching. This bold action sparked debates that ignited a movement transforming Christianity forever. But here’s the key: even the entrenched corruption of the Church played a role in bringing about necessary reform. Without it, the call to return to true Biblical principles might have been ignored.

What was the outcome? The Reformation led to the translation of the Bible into common languages, allowing everyday people to engage with God’s Word directly. This revival of Biblical literacy brought repentance to millions and reshaped the religious landscape of Europe. The Reformation serves as a reminder that God’s purposes prevail, even in the darkest circumstances.

To explore more about aligning your life with God’s principles during periods of confusion, visit Biblical Love Definition: What God Is Love Really Means John 3:16 Explained.

The Role of Tribulations in Strengthening Believers

Throughout history, times of trial and tribulation have drawn people closer to God. Think about Job’s suffering: although Satan intended it for evil, God used it to refine Job’s faith and display His sovereignty. This principle is echoed throughout Scripture and beyond.

 Consider the story of the Underground Church during Communist rule in the 20th century. Persecution aimed to silence Christians, yet it often had the opposite effect. As believers were imprisoned or marginalized, their faith became stronger, not weaker. Many who observed their steadfastness and hope amid suffering were led to Christ. Tribulation, in this context, was like a fire refining gold—it intensified genuine faith and burned away complacency.

In these moments, evil efforts to suppress the faith instead amplified its reach. Modern persecution still follows this pattern, reminding us of Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”

By examining these historical examples, we better understand the mysterious ways in which God’s will harmonizes even with evil actions for transformative purposes.

Although, no one evil, not even those who claim to be Christians and operate under the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, will make it into Heaven. Jesus made that clear when He said in Matthew 7:21-23, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in Heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

Conclusion

The thread of God’s will runs unmistakably through history, guiding events and shaping outcomes—even when working through those who oppose Him. Biblical examples like Pharaoh, Nebuchadnezzar, and Judas highlight how God achieves His purposes through unexpected and often unlikely means.

What people mean for evil, God will use for good, Genesis 50:20, that is the essence of free will. You have the God given right to be evil if you want, that is your choice, a gift from God. The truth is Only God’s Kingdom Under God’s Will Does Not Fail – Matthew 7:21.

The world’s future is on a predetermined path set by God before He created it all, and nothing will stop God’s plan because God’s plan already has an outcome. People don’t have a choice in their eternal environment because people are eternal. We only have a choice in where we spend our eternity.

Transformation, repentance, and even massive cultural shifts often follow in God’s wake, as seen in Nineveh’s repentance and Paul’s dramatic conversion.

Modern leaders like Trump, Obama, and Biden underscore that policies and actions bear lasting spiritual implications. Some align with Biblical teachings, while others depart sharply. These moments remind us to discern and pray for leadership that reflects God’s truth.

God’s will prevails, not just within Scripture but in every era, including our own. For a deeper understanding of God’s plan across history, explore insights on the Trinity’s role in salvation or consider how repentance transforms lives here. How do you see God’s hand at work in today’s world? Share your thoughts and keep seeking His truth.