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Jonah – Introduction

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Hey ladies! Welcome to our five-week study of the book of Jonah. If you’ve ever felt like running away from a problem or questioned the fairness of God’s grace—trust me, you’re not alone. Jonah’s journey is one we can all relate to in some way. It’s an invitation to explore the multi-faceted character of God who is a Relentless Pursuer, a Forgiving Father, a Generous Giver, and an Omnipresent Companion.

Before we dive into the depths of Jonah’s experiences—and maybe discover some reflections of ourselves in his story—I encourage you to spend some time in Scripture. Below, you’ll find a list of Bible passages, each offering a unique perspective on who God is (you’ll also find this in the study guide). This list also provides insight as to why these scriptures were chosen and how they relate to the story of Jonah. This spiritual foundation will help illuminate our journey through Jonah, opening our hearts to the multifaceted character of a God who endlessly pursues us, forgives us, blesses us, and walks beside us, no matter where we are.

God as the Relentless Pursuer: The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1-7)

As we embark on our study of Jonah, we’ll find that God’s pursuit of Jonah is unyielding, even when he tries to flee from God’s presence. The parable of the lost sheep will serve as a mirror, reflecting God’s determination to go after each of us when we stray.

God as the Forgiving Father: The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)

Jonah runs, rebels, and even resents God’s mercy toward Nineveh. Yet, God remains a forgiving Father, offering Jonah a chance for repentance and growth. The prodigal son’s return to his father serves as a parallel, demonstrating that God’s forgiveness awaits us, no matter how far we have drifted.

God as the Generous Giver: The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16)

In the story of Jonah, we encounter God’s wide-ranging grace for all people—including the Ninevites, whom Jonah believes are undeserving. The parable in Matthew 20 helps us grasp this generosity, as even those who are late to the vineyard are rewarded. As we explore Jonah’s reactions to God’s grace, this parable will challenge us to confront our own perceptions of who is “worthy” of God’s love.

God as the Omnipresent Companion: Psalm 139

Jonah learns the hard way that there’s nowhere he can go to escape God’s presence—not even in the belly of a big fish at the bottom of the ocean. Psalm 139 reinforces this aspect of God’s character, reminding us that we are always within the reach of His love, care, and guidance.

This Week’s Challenge

Find a notebook or open a new digital document and label it your ‘God-Sightings’ Journal. Each day, spend a few moments to write down one way you’ve seen God’s character revealed in your life or in the world around you. It could be an instance of God’s relentless pursuit, His forgiving nature, His generous blessings, or His constant companionship. At the end of the week, take some time to review your notes. Reflect on how these daily sightings relate to the story of Jonah and God’s character.

This Week’s Bible Verse

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Week at a Glance

TUESDAY:

Watch this week’s video at Time-Warp Wife or on Youtube (subscribe while you’re there)
Print off this week’s Bible verse at Time-Warp Wife.
Read the introduction chapter in your study guide.
Check in on the community at: facebook.com/groups/biblestudies. While you are there, maybe you could drop in a friendly message wishing others a blessed week, or share a prayer for the week ahead.

WEDNESDAY:

Read The Parable of the Lost Sheep in Luke 15:1-7
Share your reflections in the Facebook group.

THURSDAY:

Read The Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32
Share your reflections in the Facebook group.
Respond to at least one other person’s post in the group to encourage others.

FRIDAY:

Visit Time-Warp Wife to read Darlene’s closing thoughts on the chapter.
Read The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard Matthew 20:1-6
Share your reflections in the Facebook group.

SATURDAY:

Read Psalm 139. If you are one to write in your Bible underline or highlight every mention of God’s presence or His closeness to you. Whether it’s phrases like “You are there” or “You hem me in,” let these words serve as a reminder that God is always with you.

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