It looks like Apple has released an update for Java 7 - update 13 within the past hour or so. This might resolve those with issues on Java 7. If this resolves your issues with the inactive plug in please let us know.
I believe that Java 6 will require a separate update. OS X 10.6 and before cannot run Java 7, only Java 6.
Java 7 Update 13
Note: Oracle’s Java will only install and function on OS X 10.7.3 and higher.
From Oracle -
Oracle's Java 7u13, the latest release, will allow Java to be run on Mac OS X. Oracle's Java 7u11 and below have been disabled by Apple on OS X. Updating to 7u13 will allow secure Java to once again work.