Text: Jonah 1-4
Introduction
Many of us, like Jonah, have struggled with fulfilling God’s call. Whether out of fear, stubbornness, or misunderstanding, we sometimes run in the opposite direction of His purpose. Jonah’s story is a powerful reminder that God’s calling is inescapable, purposeful, and ultimately for His glory.
I. Running from the Call (Jonah 1:1-3)
“The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: ‘Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.’ But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish.” – Jonah 1:1-3
A. Jonah’s Disobedience
• Jonah was called to preach to Nineveh, but instead, he ran to Tarshish—the opposite direction.
• Like Jonah, we sometimes resist God’s call when it feels uncomfortable or inconvenient.
• Jonah feared failure, rejection, and God’s mercy upon his enemies—a reminder that God’s plans often go beyond our personal desires.
B. We Cannot Escape God’s Call
• Jonah thought he could run from God, but God pursued him with a storm (Jonah 1:4).
• When we resist God, He often allows storms and trials to redirect us.
• Reflection: Are you running from God’s call? What has He asked you to do that you are avoiding?
II. Facing Consequences and Surrendering (Jonah 1:4-17)
“Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.” – Jonah 1:15-17
A. Consequences of Disobedience
• Jonah’s rebellion affected others—the sailors suffered because of his choices (Jonah 1:12-14).
• Our disobedience doesn’t just impact us—it can harm those around us.
B. Jonah’s Repentance in the Fish (Jonah 2)
• Inside the fish, Jonah prayed and repented (Jonah 2:1-9).
• Sometimes, God places us in a place of isolation so that we can truly hear Him.
• The fish was not Jonah’s punishment, but his salvation—God was giving him another chance.
• Reflection: What has God allowed in your life to bring you back to Him?
III. Fulfilling the Call (Jonah 3:1-10)
“Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time: ‘Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.’ Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh.” – Jonah 3:1-3
A. God Gives Second Chances
• Jonah 3:1 says, “The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time.”
• No matter how far we run, God is still willing to use us if we surrender.
• Nineveh repented because of Jonah’s message (Jonah 3:5-10).
B. Obedience Leads to Transformation
• Jonah’s obedience led to a city-wide revival.
• When we obey God, He moves in ways beyond what we imagine.
• Reflection: Who might be impacted by your obedience to God’s call?
IV. Overcoming Bitterness & Embracing God’s Will (Jonah 4)
“But to Jonah, this seemed very wrong, and he became angry.” – Jonah 4:1
A. Jonah Was Angry at God’s Mercy
• Jonah didn’t want Nineveh to be saved because they were Israel’s enemies.
• He cared more about his own emotions and comfort than God’s plan.
B. Aligning Our Heart with God’s Purpose
• God challenged Jonah: “Should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh?” (Jonah 4:11).
• Jonah needed a heart change, just as we do when we struggle to accept God’s will.
Conclusion: Answering the Call
Jonah’s story teaches us that:
✔ We cannot run from God’s calling.
✔ Disobedience leads to consequences, but God still offers redemption.
✔ Our obedience can transform lives.
✔ We must align our hearts with God’s mercy and mission.
Personal Reflection:
• Is there a calling from God you are avoiding?
• Are you in a ‘storm’ because of disobedience?
• Will you surrender and say ‘Yes’ to God’s will today?
Final Call to Action:
Just as Jonah was given another chance, God is giving you a second chance today. Will you answer His call?
“Here I am, Lord. Send me.” – Isaiah 6:8
Amen.