God’s justice and mercy often don’t make sense to us, and they certainly didn’t make sense to Jonah. In this Old Testament narrative, we see God’s prophet obsessed with exacting his notion of justice against a nation of evildoers. In his sovereignty, God exposes the ridiculous nature of Jonah’s self-righteousness and showcases the wideness of his mercy as he pursues all nations. As we study the book of Jonah, may we be willing to look in the mirror of God’s Word and ask ourselves—am I willing to be a vehicle of God’s mercy to those who have wronged me?
Teaching
A Reluctant Prophet
Unlikely Rescue
Unlikely Repentance
Mercy for the Merciless
Then the Lord said, "Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn’t I feel sorry for such a great city?”
Jonah 4:10-11
Sermon Prep Plan
This plan of study focuses on preparing you for the upcoming teaching by providing relevant background passages, biblical context, and additional resources. You will receive an email with the weekly readings on Tuesdays. We hope this tool will help you grow in your understanding of Scripture.
Study Questions
A Reluctant Prophet
The book of Jonah begins with a shocking mission and a prophet running from God. Like Jonah, we don’t always understand what God is doing, but all things are under his control, and his love for us means he will relentlessly pursue drawing us into his story.
Unlikely Rescue
In this passage, Jonah comes face to face with the reality that he cannot outrun God. Yet as he sinks towards death, his heart turns, and his faith grants him access to God, who has already sent rescue and is ready to extend mercy.
Unlikely Repentance
Nineveh matters to God, which creates tension for Jonah, the Israelites reading his story, and us. Even more troubling is the fact that God’s prophet acts poorly, and the Israelites’ enemy is a model of repentance. While this text challenges our assumptions, it also reveals the incredibly merciful nature of God.
Mercy for the Merciless
Jonah’s story ends with unresolved anger, frustration, and self-righteousness. As we consider the things competing for our worship, may we humble ourselves to lay aside our self-righteous notions of justice and follow Jesus on his terms.
