Book of Jonah

Author: Jonah 1:1 specifically identifies the Prophet Jonah as the author of the Book of Jonah.

Date of Writing: The Book of Jonah was likely written between 793 and 758 B.C.

Purpose of Writing: Fish and revival are the key words in this book. Jonah is not merely swallowed by a great fish, this event represents God extending His helping hand to save the prophet. It gives Jonah a unique opportunity to seek a unique deliverance, as he repents during this equally unique retreat. Many classify the revival which Jonah brings to Nineveh as one of the greatest evangelistic efforts of all time.

Key Verses: Jonah 1:3, "But Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish..."

Jonah 1:17, "But the LORD provided a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was inside the fish three days and three nights."

Jonah 2:2, "In my distress I called to the LORD, and He answered me. From the depths of the grave I called for help, and you listened to my cry."

Jonah 3:10, "When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, He had compassion and did not bring upon them the destruction he had threatened."

Brief Summary: Jonah's fear and pride cause him to run from God. He does not wish to go to Nineveh to preach repentance to the people, as God has commanded, because he feels they are his enemy and he is convinced that God will not carry out his threat to destroy the city. Instead he boards a ship for Tarshish, which is in the opposite direction. Soon a raging storm causes the crew to cast lots to determine that Jonah is the problem. They throw him overboard, and he is swallowed by a great fish. In its belly for 3 days and 3 nights, Jonah repents of his sin to God, and the fish vomits him up on dry land (we wonder what took him so long to repent). Jonah then makes the 500 mile trip to Nineveh and leads the city in a great revival. But the prophet is displeased (actually pouts) instead of thankful when Nineveh repents. Jonah learns his lesson, however, when God uses a wind, a gourd and a worm to teach him that God is merciful.

Practical Application: We cannot hide from God. Regardless of our patriotism, we must never put our country ahead of God. Regardless of our reputation, nationality or race God loves us. Rejoicing in the salvation of others is an experience God wants us to share with Him (not be resentful, jealous or thinking it is not "real").

Recommended Resources: Holman Old Testament Commentary: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah by Trent Butler.
Joel, Obadiah, Jonah & Micah, New International Commentary on the Old Testament by Leslie C. Allen.

Related Topics:

Book of Joel

Book of Amos

Book of Obadiah

Book of Micah

Book of Nahum