THE LAST PLACE ANYONE EXPECTS (Jesus Revolution - Bible Study)
- Pastor Donnie Miller
- May 28, 2022
- 2 min read
“Get up! Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it because their evil has come up before me.” - JONAH 1:2
Chances are good that you’re familiar with the story of Jonah. Most people could describe a Disney-like scene similar to Pinocchio in the belly of a whale. But rather than focusing on the reluctant prophet’s time underwater, you’ll journey through the whole story today. Don’t worry, it’s really good (and really short). As you read Jonah’s story, consider how you can relate.
Read Jonah 1-2.
In chapter 1, Jonah tries to run from God’s presence, fleeing to Tarshish, a city in the opposite direction of Ninevah.
When have you tried to run and hide from God or blatantly disobeyed Him?
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In chapter 2, Jonah accepts the consequence of his sin and repents by turning back to the Lord.
What specific examples of God’s all-powerful, all-knowing, always-present goodness stand out to you in chapters 1 and 2?
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How have you experienced the undeserved grace of the all-powerful and all-knowing God?
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In chapters 3–4, what did everyone do and why? Describe how God worked in the city of Ninevah. What was Jonah’s response?
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God’s call on Jonah’s life didn’t change. His will for the people of Ninevah didn’t change either. This was the most violent and sinful culture imaginable—the last place anyone expected a city-wide revival to happen. Even though God had just shown Jonah miraculous mercy, saving him with a big fish, he didn’t want others to receive mercy for their rebellion. Like many of us, Jonah felt somehow entitled to God’s grace while believing that other people didn’t deserve any more chances.
Have you ever considered that God’s will for your life isn’t just about you? The grace, mercy, and goodness that He gives to you are not for you alone. The opportunity for salvation and blessing is even for “that person” who hurt you personally or “those people” who you may honestly want God to judge for their sinfulness in general.
Identify a needed change that only God can bring in each of the following.
Culture / “those” people:
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Enemy / “that” person:
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You:
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If you’ve ever doubted God’s ability or willingness to work through you, let Jonah encourage you. If you’re discouraged that your family, friends, coworkers, or country seem to be hopelessly lost with no desire for God, take heart. If there’s a person you’ve given up on, remember that if it can happen in Nineveh, it can happen anywhere!
To end this session, read and reflect on Jonah 2. Pray that God would give you a humble heart eager to be used for His purposes.
You are invited to join us every Wednesday Night for our Online Bible Study. "Jesus Revolution" at 7pm on our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ccogjohnson
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