How do we know God planned the cross?

The assurance that God planned the cross is found throughout Scripture, notably in Acts 2:23, which states that Jesus was delivered up according to the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God. This plan was set before the foundation of the world as evidenced in passages like Ephesians 1:4. The crucifixion was not a consequence of human evil alone but was orchestrated by God to fulfill His purpose for the salvation of His people. Even the actions of wicked men served to execute God's divine decree, demonstrating that His will ultimately governs all events.