Jonah-2015

In the conclusion of the book of Jonah, we see God’s gentle admonishment against Jonah’s unrighteous anger about God’s forgiveness of the Ninevites.

Exploration of the Biblical teachings on righteous and unrighteous anger in the context of Jonah’s anger at God for not punishing the Ninevites.

Examination of the connection between faith, obedience, and repentance in the context of the repentance of the Ninevites in response to Jonah’s preaching.

Conclusion of Jonah’s prayer inside the great fish. Discussion of vows made to the LORD, and of His salvation in the context of Jonah’s prayer.

Jonah’s prayer Part III – A consideration of the sin of idolatry in ancient times and today. The Hebrew word for mercy ( חֶסֶד – checed ). The desire of God for us to offer sacrifices gladly.

Jonah’s prayer part II – Jonah’s despair at separation from God (a type of Christ); God’s abhorrence of pride; God’s mercy and forgiveness of the humble.

Jonah’s prayer. What the Bible says about Hell (Sheol/Hades). The importance of the Bible’s denial of the swoon theory to salvation by Christ’s sacrifice.

God’s provision of the great fish for Jonah’s protection until he humbled himself. Also other examples of the Biblical significance of the 3-day period.

God’s first purpose in calling Jonah – salvation of the mariners by Jonah’s sacrifice (a type of Christ’s). Also casting of lots and the Urim and Thummin.

Nineveh’s culture of cruelty and idolatry. God’s foreknowledge of Jonah’s rebellion against His calling. God’s three-fold purpose in calling Jonah.