Podcasts about ninevites

Ezra called for the Jews to repent to prevent God's wrath, Jonah called the Ninevites to repent to prevent God's wrath, and the Holy Spirit called Americans to repent to prevent God's wrath.  Each time after the people repented, law and order was restored to the land and the people prospered once again.  The same is happening right now in America today! If you are blessed by today's Bible study, please support my channel by liking, subscribing, commenting, and sharing with your friends and family!  I am not a Pastor, and agree with God's word that women are not supposed to be Pastors.  However, all people are called to share the gospel. It is perfectly acceptable and Biblical for women to lead Bibles studies outside the church as an ancillary addition to the church, and especially if it is a viable avenue for study of the Word on a daily basis, like I'm doing on this show, and paving the way for all of us to be closer to the Lord and become more knowledgeable of the Bible.  If you care to contribute to my work with the Daily Bible study and sharing the Gospel, as part of your tithes and offerings, you can do so through PayPal by sending it to my PayPal address of: ReneHoladay@gmail.com  Thank you for watching and God Bless you all! ;() --------------------- The primary study bible that Rene' uses is the 'Spirit-filled Life Bible, by Jack Hayford, and is available in hard cover or faux leather on Amazon at:  https://amzn.to/434fBnQ You can watch this episode on Youtube at:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2v9ekffu7ds Please be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, COMMENT, and SHARE!

Daily Dose of Hope June 16, 2025   Scripture - Matthew 12:38-50   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, Mighty God, Holy One...We come to you this morning with humility and gratefulness.  Thank you that your mercies are new every morning.  Thank you that you continue to love and guide us, even though we mess up again and again.  Thank you for your patience and your never-ending care.  Lord, we are so very grateful.  Help us, on this Monday, to start our week with the right attitude.  We belong to you and we are under your authority.  Help us see others the way you see them.  Help us produce fruit in our lives.  Oh, Lord, how we need your help.  Please, Jesus, may we hear your voice today.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a Deep Dive into the Gospels and the book of Acts.  Happy Monday!   Our Scripture reading for today is the last half of Matthew 12.  We start with the discussion about the sign of Jonah.  The Pharisees have asked Jesus for a sign to demonstrate that he is the Messiah.  Apparently, all the miracles he has done thus far aren't enough for these guys.  Remember, the Pharisees were even attributing some of his miracles to Satan.  Understandably, this request doesn't go over too well with Jesus.    On the surface, there isn't anything wrong with their request.  There are times in the Old Testament in which people asked God for a sign.  But Jesus can see right through their request.  Nothing he does will make these guys believe in him.  In fact, they are looking for more ammunition to use against Jesus.  There is nothing sincere about the request.  Matthew Henry writes in his commentary, "Christ is always ready to hear and answer holy desires and prayers, yet he will not gratify corrupt lusts and humors."   Jesus does promise the sign of Jonah.  The Jews believed that the Ninevites repented when Jonah preached because they knew it was the God of all who spoke through him.  And they knew this because God kept him from dying in the belly of the big fish.  In the same way, Jesus' resurrection will signify God's vindication of him and affirm the truth of what he says and his divinity.  But Jesus knows that even the resurrection won't be enough to make most of these Jewish leaders believe.  Their hearts are hard.    Now, let's take a look at the text about Jesus' mother and brothers.  I'll be honest, growing up I used to really struggle with this passage. It seemed so harsh! But deeper reflection yields a different perspective.   Can you imagine what it must have been like for Jesus' immediate family? We know that Mary knew that Jesus was special but did she really understand the significance of his life at this point? What must his siblings have thought?   We see in this text that his mother and brothers are wanting to talk to him, interrupting a teaching session. Are they chatting about Sunday dinner or do they want him to stop making such a ruckus around town? Again, we don't have details but it's clear they don't really know him as the Son of God (yet).   Jesus' reaction is a bit off-putting. As a mom, I might have gotten my feelings hurt more than a little bit. But he is making a point. Jesus' family has become much wider than Mary, Joseph, and the boys. There are no bounds to who may be part of it. Anyone who does the will of my Father is my brother and sister and mother.  Jesus is redefining family for those who profess faith in him.  Yes, biological family relationships are important but spiritual family relationships (and this might be hard to hear) are even more important.    Given the strong emphasis on family ties in first century Palestine, Jesus' words here would have been shocking.  But what he is saying is that believers should consider themselves family and care for one another like they are family members.  In the words of Sister Sledge, we are family.   The apostle Paul in his New Testament letters expanded on this idea of believers being a family of faith:  In Galatians 6:10, Paul speaks of our need to care for those in the household of God, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”  Family was a big deal at the time.  People lived with extended family.  Who you were related to mattered.  You were under social and moral obligation to care for your extended family.  And Paul is saying who you are related to in Christ is also a big deal.  Those people in your church family, those other believers that worship with you, those other people who profess faith in Jesus --- these are your brothers and sisters as well.  These people are family. In Ephesians 2:19, Paul writes, Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household…  We are members of God's household.  We are members of God's family.  If you have said yes to Jesus as Lord and Savior, then God is your father.  You are a child of God.  And you have many siblings.  We are brothers and sisters.  We are family.  We are no longer strangers.  Think about those people at church, at New Hope.  Some you know and some you don't know.  Some you like and others you might not like.  But we are family and we will spend eternity together. And the early church clearly behaved in the way biological families behaved.  They ate together, they spent time together, they sacrificed and worked together.  Acts 2:44-47, All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.   They behaved like a family.  They loved each other like a family.  They sacrificed together like a family.  There was nothing fakey about this.  Notice it doesn't say they came together on Sunday morning, shook hands, and then went their own way.  No, they did life together.  It was real.  It was genuine.  And guess what?  God added to their numbers. Because people see that and they want that. It's no different today.  We have an epidemic of loneliness.  People are disconnected.  People are struggling.  Even those who aren't struggling are always looking for sincere, genuine places of love and acceptance.  The family of faith is intended to be a place in which you are loved, accepted, cared for, held accountable, belong, where you know people have your back, where you can learn and grow…. It's far from perfect because it involves human beings.  Over the years, the church has too often been exclusive, cliquey, fake, and judgmental.  Sometimes, we have been more dysfunctional family than healthy family.  We have done harm.  I think we need to repent of that.  If we at New Hope have ever been part of putting walls up, then we need to repent of that.  If I have ever been part of mistreating my brother or sister, if you have been part of excluding or hurting your brother and sister, then you need to repent of that.  Period. We are a family.  And families are funny.  Families are not polished and pulled together.  Families love each other, they are loyal to one another, but they sometimes get annoyed with one another.  They sometimes hurt one another (I am thinking of my own three kids – they love each other fiercely and yet, they can really push each other's buttons).  It's no difference with our siblings in Christ.  Family is a place where we do a lot of forgiving, a lot of extending grace, but it's also a place where we know that we belong no matter what.  Strong families are places where when you come together, you can just take a deep breath and say, “I'm home.”  It isn't the building but it's the people.  This is the thing.  When a church family loves like Jesus, people get a glimpse of Jesus.  When we care for one another sacrificially, people see Jesus.  When the family of faith sacrifices for one another, then people get to see Jesus in action.  Lives are transformed.  Hearts are changed.  Our faith grows stronger.  Jesus Christ is glorified. And the Lord added to their numbers those who were being saved.  Think about the relationships you have made within the faith family. Are they strong? Why or why not? What holds you back from creating strong, meaningful connections to your brothers and sisters in Christ?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

The sermon explored Jesus' response to those demanding a sign, emphasizing the importance of having an open heart towards God. We delved into the contrast between the hardened hearts of the Pharisees and the receptive attitudes of unlikely believers like the Ninevites and the Queen of Sheba. Most importantly, we discussed Jesus' ultimate sign - His resurrection - and its profound implications for our faith and lives.

The sermon explored Jesus' response to those demanding a sign, emphasizing the importance of having an open heart towards God. We delved into the contrast between the hardened hearts of the Pharisees and the receptive attitudes of unlikely believers like the Ninevites and the Queen of Sheba. Most importantly, we discussed Jesus' ultimate sign - His resurrection - and its profound implications for our faith and lives.

Join us on Sunday as we discover the extent of God's graciousness, mercy and his loving kindness on full display in His reaction towards Jonah and the Ninevites.

The sun is out, boats are on the water, fish are jumping, and the beach is calling. It's the perfect time to revisit one of the Bible's most memorable water-based narratives: the story of Jonah.   Welcoming former co-host Bri Gerzevske back once again for another hilarious installment of Bri's Radio Theatre, Sarah, Erin, and Rachel are jumping feet-first with her into the briny deep.   How will Captain Trish handle the runaway prophet on board her ship? What will the Ninevites do when they hear Jonah's message of doom and gloom? Will Jonah ever learn what God wants to teach him? And what does this all have to do with the death and resurrection of Jesus?   Disclaimer: This episode is satire, Trish is a fictional character, and we already know our script probably wouldn't pass LCMS Doctrinal Review on the first try. Enjoy.  Connect with the Lutheran Ladies on social media in The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge Facebook discussion group (facebook.com/groups/LutheranLadiesLounge) and on Instagram @lutheranladieslounge. Follow Sarah (@hymnnerd), Rachel (@rachbomberger), and Erin (@erinaltered) on Instagram! Sign up for the Lutheran Ladies' Lounge monthly e-newsletter here, and email the Ladies at lutheranladies@kfuo.org.

In week 2 of our series, "Everyday Prophets", Pastor Ben teaches through the minor prophet Jonah. We are all very familiar with the beginning part of Jonah's narrative, but have you really taken a look at how the book of Jonah ends? Jonah becomes pretty upset by the fact that the Lord was slow to anger with the Ninevites and showed them mercy instead of wrath. It's a hard lesson for us all in revealing our own posture and attitude towards grace with one another. Who is your Ninevah? Who are your enemies that you should be praying over instead of having bitterness towards?

Nineveh was one of the greatest cities in the ancient world. In fact, the Bible says it was “an exceeding great city.” But as Dr. McGee tells us, Nineveh was not only great in size, but great in wickedness, too! So, how will the Ninevites react when Jonah shows up with a message from God? That's what we'll discover as Jonah enters the city and begins to proclaim God's message.

Our exploration of the book of Jonah reveals important truths about missions and our often-reluctant hearts toward sharing the gospel.• God calls us out of our comfort zones to reach the lost.• Jonah knew God was merciful but didn't want that mercy extended to Nineveh.• Christians today often retreat into isolation or political arguments rather than gospel sharing.• The gospel remains the same regardless of who we're sharing with.• We don't need perfect answers to every question when witnessing.• Our testimonies can open doors even in brief encounters.• God looks at eternal souls while we focus on temporal differences.• True forgiveness is a distinctive of Christianity worth sharing.• Compassion for the lost should transcend cultural and political differences.Read the book of Jonah and join us for our next episode where we'll continue exploring Jonah's relationship with God and the Ninevites.

How important is obeying God? Very important! Listen to what happened to Jonah when he ran away and find out the wonderful thing God did for Jonah and the Ninevites when he asked for forgiveness and obeyed. Nature lesson on whales. Mem vs. Jer.26:13. Check out this week's coloring pages at https://startingwithjesus.com/spb-cp/ Child helpers: Emma, Heidi, Issac, and Kent. Recorded and produced by: Ashley B. Larson Don't forget to check out the coloring pages that go along with each lesson! https://startingwithjesus.com/spb-cp/ If you have enjoyed this program and would like to know more, go to our website: www.startingwithjesus.com The Bible and nature story material used in today's devotional podcast has been used with permission from My Bible First. If you would like your own copy, please visit their website-or call 1-877-242-5317. If you would like to purchase your own Memory Verse CD or Songbook, go to Ouachita Hills Store (https://www.ouachitahillsacademy.org/store?page=1&store_category_id=0&sort_by=title&is_ascending=1&search=). Songs from: Little Voices Praise Him, SDA Hymnal, Sabbath Songs For Tiny Tots, New Sabbath Songs For Tiny Tots, Memory Verse Verse Songs for Cradle Roll, Children's Songs For Jesus, and Scripture Songs and Little Lessons All Bible verses are from the NKJV. Singers for this Quarter: Tory, Caleb, and Enoch Hall, Hudson Reeves, Michael and Amy Nelson Editing assist: Dillon Austin and Josh Larson Music Recording and Editing: Rachel Nelson and Kristy Hall Coloring Pages: Rachel Lamming, Lily Canada, and Evie Rodriguez Theme Music: Lindsey Mills- www.lindseymillsmusic.com  God: who gives talents for us to use for Him

Na'hum. (consolation). Nahum, called "the Elkoshite," is the seventh, in order, of the Minor Prophets. His personal history is quite unknownThe name refers back to Yahweh's compassion connected with Jonah's mission eighty-seven years before. The name Nahum is an abbreviated form of the name Nehemiah, which means “Comfort of Yahweh.”Before I get into this study, I continue with our study on what the Capital Building is all about. Was the Capital design to be a Temple set up by the founders of the New World Order?  In this study, I continue into the insight of the artist of the Capital Dome, Constantino BrumidiBeginning with this Chapter 2 and in this Chapter 3 we now read of Nineveh's destruction2:1 - 3:19. DESTRUCTION OF NINEVEH   2:1-2. Yahweh's. = challenge to fight.   2:3-10. Judgment. = Invasion.   2:11-13; 3:1-7. Causes. = Hostility.  3:8-10. Examples. = Citation.   3:11-13. Examples. = Application.   3:14. Yahweh's. = challenge to fight.   3:15-17. Judgment. = Devastation.   3:18-19. Causes. = Hostility We, as Christians realize that the world is filled with stories of dark heavy sins.  Be warned, this passage we will look at involves some dark and heavy sins.  And from this we know that Yahweh condemns them and He is one day going to have a day of reckoning for those who commit vile sins.So what is the Purpose: We need to know three condemnations Yahweh bring against Nineveh and its result so that we desire to see Yahweh's deliverance and also destruction of the wicked?Be warned that Yahweh condemn Nineveh's violation of the second table of the Ten Commandments (v.1)Be warned that Yahweh condemn Nineveh's militarism (v.2-3)Be warned that Yahweh condemn Nineveh's human trafficking (v.4)We need to know that Yahweh's punishment of Nineveh and its outcome (v.5-7)1      Woe = Woe warns of something terrible that is about to happenbloody city = city of great bloodshedAll of it is (built on) lies (deceit) = A government wanting to hide truth comes against those who try to expose their lies, corruption and deceitRobbery =peh'-rek means to disassembledeparteth not = will not be lacking2   The noise, &c. = Between verses: 1-2 supply the logical Ellipsis (Other words El-lip´-sis. This is the Greek word ἔλλειψις, a leaving in, from ἐν (en) in, and λείπειν (leipein) to leave'The figure is so called, because some gap is left in the sentence, which means that a word or words are left out or omitted3  The horseman lifteth up both the bright sword and the glittering spear, .... = Or, "the flame of the sword and the glittering spear"; he rides with a drawn sword, bright = gleamingglittering = flashing and there is a multitude of slain, and a great number of carcasses; = of dead men lying in the streets, pierced and slain with the bright sword and glittering spear of the Medes and Chaldeansupon = over and there is none end of their corpses; the number of them could not be told; they lay so thick in all parts of the city, that there was no telling them They = i.e. the slayers. Hebrew text margin, with some codices, and four early printed editions, reads "so that they stumble", they stumble upon their corpses; = the Ninevites in fleeing, and endeavoring to make their escape, and the Medes and Chaldeans pursuing themHave any questions? Feel free to email me; keitner2024@outlook.com 

How important is obeying God? Very important! Listen to what happened to Jonah when he ran away and find out the wonderful thing God did for Jonah and the Ninevites when he asked for forgiveness and obeyed. Nature lesson on whales. Mem vs. Jer.26:13. Check out this week's coloring pages at https://startingwithjesus.com/spb-cp/ Child helpers: Emma, Heidi, Issac, and Kent. Recorded and produced by: Ashley B. Larson Don't forget to check out the coloring pages that go along with each lesson! https://startingwithjesus.com/spb-cp/ If you have enjoyed this program and would like to know more, go to our website: www.startingwithjesus.com The Bible and nature story material used in today's devotional podcast has been used with permission from My Bible First. If you would like your own copy, please visit their website-or call 1-877-242-5317. If you would like to purchase your own Memory Verse CD or Songbook, go to Ouachita Hills Store (https://www.ouachitahillsacademy.org/store?page=1&store_category_id=0&sort_by=title&is_ascending=1&search=). Songs from: Little Voices Praise Him, SDA Hymnal, Sabbath Songs For Tiny Tots, New Sabbath Songs For Tiny Tots, Memory Verse Verse Songs for Cradle Roll, Children's Songs For Jesus, and Scripture Songs and Little Lessons All Bible verses are from the NKJV. Singers for this Quarter: Tory, Caleb, and Enoch Hall, Hudson Reeves, Michael and Amy Nelson Editing assist: Dillon Austin and Josh Larson Music Recording and Editing: Rachel Nelson and Kristy Hall Coloring Pages: Rachel Lamming, Lily Canada, and Evie Rodriguez Theme Music: Lindsey Mills- www.lindseymillsmusic.com  God: who gives talents for us to use for Him

Pastor Matt continued our series on the Minor Prophets today with an further look at the book of Jonah. This time, we focused on chapters 2 and 3, delving into the qualities of Jonah's prayer to God, the nature of what was missing in that prayer, and the Ninevites' response to his message.

Wednesday of the First Week of Lent. Father Dave focuses on today's reading from Jonah and the dramatic conversion of the Ninevites. Rather than just one moment, we are called to have an ongoing conversion in our faith life and continually humble ourselves. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 3-12-25

Discover the life-changing truth of God's second chances in this powerful sermon inspired by Jonah 3!

In Jonah 3, we see the Ninevites turn from their evil ways and repent, but what led them to that point? What leads us to repent from our evil ways? Only God's love, shown through His grace and His mercy and sometimes even His wrath, can truly change a heart and turn a life around.Support the show

This week in our "Miracles Vol.1" series we dive into the life of Jonah, and into the miracles that happen in his life. Most of us are familiar with the story of Jonah, but do we see the true miracle that is often overlooked by the miracle of the Big Fish? Pastor Brandon teaches us through Jonah's story that running from God never makes things any better; Jonah ran away from God but learned quickly that there is nowhere we can go that is away from Him. Then, after being swallowed by the Big Fish, Jonah teaches us by example that even in our lowest moments we can cry out to God and be heard. God can get us where He wants us to go, even if we take a detour along the way. But the biggest miracle Pastor Brandon shows us from the scriptures is that God still had mercy and compassion for the Ninevites after they repented! Jonah missed it though, showing that sometimes we can feel so right that God's grace feels wrong. But Pastor Brandon encourages us, that you shouldn't limit God's love, because if you do it will then limit your life. - Key Verses // Jonah 1-4 - For Sermon Notes, the Connect Card, and our other online resources: https://linktr.ee/Celebrationchurchlive

After Jonah preaches to the Ninevites, they repented including the king.  This makes Jonah mad when God shows them grace.  Jonah leaves the city and pouts from afar.

Jonah 4. Jessica unpacks Jonah's indignation at God for forgiving the Ninevites...and asks where that sentiment might reside in us.

Today's Topics: 1) Gospel - Luke 11:29-32 - While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here." Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Scott Smith on his book: Near-Death Experiences https://sophiainstitute.com/product/near-death-experiences/

Gospel Luke 11:29-32 While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here." Reflection Jesus talks about the kingdom of God and what it means to believe in it. What is this sign that we're looking for? It's so interesting that Jesus, when he looks at the generation around him that's always asking for signs, he points out what the core sign truly is, the sign of Jonah. And what does that mean? It means that Jonah was swallowed by a whale, three days he was in the stomach of the whale, and then he was released. He lived. That image is the image of what Jesus has come into the world to establish. The end of evil's power, to destroy. And basically, what we see in Jesus is his own death, he gives in to evil. Everyone thinks there again, evil has done something awful and destroyed the good it was in Jesus. And what we need to realize, no he rose three days later. He destroys the death that evil could cause before our redemption. Closing Prayer It's so easy to fall into the trap of thinking that things are going in the wrong direction. That is evil is winning. Nothing is further from the truth. Evil, when it's exposed, is vulnerable. And the vulnerability that is there is the realization, in the believer's, that they know that evil has been destroyed and there is no fear of evil. Only hope and trust in the mystery of the sign of Jonah. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friends of the Rosary,The prophet Jonah walked through the large city of Nineveh — a New York of that time —preaching repentance for three days, as we read today (Luke 11:29-32).At Jonah's preaching, the Ninevites turned back to God. They repented and believed, detaching from worldly pleasures and preoccupations.Christ himself — who is greater than Jonah — is the source of our repentance and conversion. He was born to die in the Cross, offering himself for our redemption and salvation.Today, we invoke his mercy so His goodness and compassion wipe out our offenses.As Bishop Barron encourages us, “Go beyond the mind that you have. Repent. Live as though nothing in this world finally matters. And you will be living in the kingdom of God.”Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!+ Mikel Amigot | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠March 12, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them,"This generation is an evil generation;it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it,except the sign of Jonah.Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites,so will the Son of Man be to this generation.At the judgmentthe queen of the south will rise with the men of this generationand she will condemn them,because she came from the ends of the earthto hear the wisdom of Solomon,and there is something greater than Solomon here.At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generationand condemn it,because at the preaching of Jonah they repented,and there is something greater than Jonah here."

Jonah and Jesus Today, Pastor Michael is continuing the story of Jonah and his continual running from God, notably because he did not agree with a decision made by the Lord to warn the city of Nineveh's citizens of immenent destruction.  Jonah did not like God showing mercy to the Ninevites, so he was trying to get as far away from the situation as he could! Big problem, though.  You cannot run away from the creator of the universe! At this point in the story, Jonah is in the belly of a whale (fish in those days) due to him being cast into the sea by sailors who wanted to appease God for Jonah running from Him.  So Jonah is praying fervently to God from the belly of the whale, obviously knowing God called the storm and the fish, as part of a plan to show Jonah, you can't run from God.  And Jonah heartily repented in prayer and the Lord made the whale spit Jonah out to dry land.  Today's take away is, “Swallowed by sin, set free by the Savior.” Today's verses can be found in Jonah 1: 17 - 2: 10. Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. 

The author of the book is Jonah. His name (הָונֹי Yonah) means “dove.” Yahshua Messiah mentions Jonah, and the account of this book, as true history (Mat 12:39-41)Jonah had strong national pride and hated the Assyrians, and his attitude reflected that of Israel. Though Yahweh hated the evil of the Assyrians, He loved them and desired their salvation. For this reason, Yahweh called Jonah to preach to them (Jon 1:1-2), but His prophet declined and ran away (Jon 1:3). Yahweh began a series of judgments upon His disobedient prophet which included a storm (Jon 1:4), the pressure of Gentile sailors (Jon 1:5-16), and a great fish that swallowed him (Jon 1:17). From the belly of the great fish Jonah was humbled and cried out to the Lord, who saved him (Jon 2:1-10). The humbled prophet then obeyed the Lord and preached to the Ninevites (Jon 3:1-4), and the people of the city believed in Yahweh and the Lord changed His mind about the judgment He was going to bring on them (Jon 3:5-10). Yahweh's mercy and grace greatly upset Jonah to the point where he wanted to die (Jon 4:1-3), but the grace Yahweh showed to Nineveh was shown to Jonah, which grace reflects the Lord's sovereignty (Jon 4:4-11). The overall purpose of the book of Jonah is to reveal that Yahweh's grace, compassion, and mercy extends to evil and hostile nations just as it does to His peopleIn this study we will finish Chapter 3In our last study we read about Jonah getting a second chance from Yahweh to go Nineveh and preach to them. This time Jonah didn't try to run and hide but listen to the words of Yahweh! We read in verse 5 that the people of Nineveh “believed” in the divine message from Yahweh through Jonah. Even though we may not see the word “repent” we are lead to believe that the people of Nineveh did “repent”7    The King made it a law that all should participate in the offering to The One True Yahweh. So serious did the Ninevites take this vow that even their animals were ordered to participate in it. Yahweh surely touched the hearts of the people of Nineveh in a very strong way. For just a few days prior, Nineveh was worshiping fish gods and participating in all forms of wickedness and idolatry9              turn and repent = Change His mind, turn away from destroying them. They are holding faith that if the repent and change their evil ways, that Yahweh will spare them. This no doubt impressed Yahweh, for Nineveh as you remember, was a Heathen Pagan evil city. I'm sure that Yahweh was impressed at the heartfelt change and sacrifice that the Ninevites had made10           their works = Not their words only, but Yahweh recognized the sincere change that they had made. Nineveh had been saved by the grace and mercy of the Lord because they effected a real change. Don't read over the fact that Yahweh expects something from you                Elohim saw their works…and Elohim repented = Yahweh honored Nineveh's repentance, even though their past sin was reason enough for an outpouring of judgment. The state would never forgive a cold-blooded murderer who vowed to never do it again, but Yahweh mercifully repented from judgment against the people of NinevehWe do not obligate Yahweh to forgive us when we repent. Instead, repentance appeals to Yahweh's mercy, not His justice Yahweh repented from the evil that He had said He would do unto them, and He did it not = Did Yahweh's repenting make Jonah a false prophet, when he prophesied Yet forty days and Nineveh shall be overthrown? Not at all, for two good reasonsJoin me as we go Chapter by Chapter, Verse by Verse, Unraveling the Words of Yahweh!Have any questions? Feel free to email me; keitner2024@outlook.com 

Pastor David shows us, Jonah is the messenger of Grace to the Ninevites, but he himself is the undeserving recipent in dire need of it.

Luke 11:14-36New King James Version:A House Divided Cannot Stand14 And He was casting out a demon, and it was mute. So it was, when the demon had gone out, that the mute spoke; and the multitudes marveled. 15 But some of them said, “He casts out demons by [a]Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.”16 Others, testing Him, sought from Him a sign from heaven. 17 But He, knowing their thoughts, said to them: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and a house divided against a house falls. 18 If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? Because you say I cast out demons by Beelzebub. 19 And if I cast out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. 20 But if I cast out demons with the finger of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you. 21 When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace. 22 But when a stronger than he comes upon him and overcomes him, he takes from him all his armor in which he trusted, and divides his [b]spoils. 23 He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.An Unclean Spirit Returns24 “When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.' 25 And when he comes, he finds it swept and put in order. 26 Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first.”Keeping the Word27 And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and the breasts which nursed You!”28 But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”Seeking a Sign29 And while the crowds were thickly gathered together, He began to say, “This is an evil generation. It seeks a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah [c]the prophet. 30 For as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so also the Son of Man will be to this generation. 31 The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here. 32 The men of Nineveh will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and indeed a greater than Jonah is here.The Lamp of the Body33 “No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light. 34 The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is [d]good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is [e]bad, your body also is full of darkness. 35 Therefore take heed that the light which is in you is not darkness. 36 If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, the whole body will be full of light, as when the bright shining of a lamp gives you light.”

When we come to Luke 11:28-32, it appears that Jesus has finishedHis lessons on the subject of prayer and a crowd of both curious people and contentiousreligious leaders have “thickly gathered together” around Him and His disciples. It appears at the point thecrowd really begins to press in upon Jesus on every side and then He gives thema message of condemnation and judgement (vv. 29-36). Jesus was not impressed by the big crowds, but most likely,the disciples were. And because Jesus knew what was in their hearts of thereligious leaders and the crowd, in order to keep the Twelve from being swayedby "success," Jesus gave them some insights into what was reallyhappening as they ministered the Word to the large crowds of people thatsurrounded them. He reveals the unbelief of their hearts despite the signs thatHe had already given them over the past three years of His ministry in Galilee. Like so many people today who say, “Show me a miracle and Iwill believe”, the Jewish leaders kept asking Jesus for a sign to prove that Hewas the Messiah. The only sign He promised was "the sign of Jonah theprophet." What was the sign of Jonah? What was his story? Remember he disobeyGod's command to go to Nineveh and went the opposite direction to Tarshish. Godpunished him by putting him the belly of whale for three days and three nights.He repented and went to Nineveh with a message of coming judgement, and theyrepented. How interesting that Jonah was as displeased by the repentance ofNineveh as the religious leaders of the Lord's generation were at therepentance of people in all parts of the country!  Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites. He had been three daysand nights in what he called "the belly of hell." When he marchedthrough their streets, it was with a face livid and terrifying from the fierceaction of the gastric juices of the great fish. The man himself was as much themessage as the words that he proclaimed; he was a sign. "God will punishsin!" It was written all over the disobedient prophet. But there he was,alive from the dead, a living epistle. They could infer from that the fact that"God will pardon sinners." But Jonah was also a sign of the coming death, burial andresurrection of Jesus Christ! This is the greatest sign given by “a greaterthan Jonah”, Jesus Christ! It is the resurrection of our Lord that proves He isthe Messiah, the Son of God (Rom. 1:4), and this is what Peter preached toIsrael on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:22ff). The witness of the early churchwas centered on Christ's resurrection (Acts 1:22; 3:15; 5:30-32; 13:32-33).Jonah was a living miracle and so is our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus also reminded them of Solomon and the “Queen of theSouth”. The emphasis here is on the wisdom of a king, not the works of aprophet. The Queen of Sheba traveled many miles to hear the wisdom of Solomon(1 Kings 10), but here was the very Son of God in their midst, and the Jewswould not believe His words! Even if Jesus had performed a sign, it would nothave changed their hearts. They needed the living wisdom of God, but they werecontent with their stale religious tradition. When Jonah preached to theGentiles in Nineveh, they repented and were spared. When a Gentile queen heardSolomon's wisdom, she marveled and believed. If, with all their privileges, theJews did not repent, then the people of Nineveh and the Queen of Sheba wouldbear witness against them in the last judgment. The Lord gave Israel so manyopportunities, yet they would not believe (Luke 13:34-35; John 12:35-41). Today, we have the complete Bible, and the historical factsof the resurrection of Jesus Christ, yet still so many chose their sins andreligion over believing and putting their faith in Jesus Christ. How great willtheir condemnation and judgment be?

JONAH was the most ancient of all the prophets whose writings have come down to us. He is supposed to have prophesied in the latter end of Jehu's or the beginning of Jehoahaz's reignThe author of the book is Jonah. His name (הָונֹי Yonah) means “dove.” Yahshua Messiah mentions Jonah, and the account of this book, as true history (Mat 12:39-41).The book of Jonah was written to Israel to show that Yahweh's grace and mercy extends to Gentiles, even those whom Israel regards as their evil enemies.In this study we will begin in Chapter 3. In the last chapter we saw Jonah being spit or vomited up onto dry land by the great fish. In this Chapter 3 we are going to see that the people of Nineveh instantly accept Jonah. This would certainly seem odd for a heathen Pagan city, if we did not understand that the Ninevites worshiped a fish-headed god name 'Dagon'. Side note if you look and the headdress of the Catholic Pope and bishops you will notice the Dagon fish like hat that they wear! So to the Ninevites this man Jonah, who claimed to speak for Yahweh, and whom was delivered unto them by an immense fish, must be a Divine sign. The Ninevites took to Jonah and his message like a fish takes to water. But seriously, if they worshiped a fish god, and this man was delivered (sent) to them by a fish, they would almost worship him, and would most certainly heed any warning he delivered. Perhaps this was Almighty Yahweh's plan all along.2    great city = Not good, but this word 'great' in the Hebrew is 'gadowl'; Hebrew word #1419, and it means: massive, proud, disrespectful, and of old.3   great city of three days' journey = Not three days from where Jonah was, but this was a form of measure in those days. What this is saying is that the city was so large that it was three days walk to go around its outer walls. Three day's journey was approximately sixty miles around. Quite a large city for those days and in [4:11] we see that Nineveh had six score thousand inhabitants (120,000).4   began to enter into the city a day's journey = Jonah walked 20 miles into the heart of the city. cried = Proclaimed (same word used for 'preach' in verse 2).  forty = In Biblical numeric's, the number forty represents probation, and Nineveh had just about exhausted Yahweh's patience, their probation from destruction was ending in forty days. overthrown = Destroyed. This is Hebrew word #2015: 'haphak', and it is the identical word used of Yahweh's destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah [Gen 19:24-25]. The Ninevites may have been aware of the 'legend' of Yahweh's judgment and destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah5    believed = Believed the proclamation of their impending doom, and sought to atone to Yahweh wherein they might be spared.  proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth = A sign of mourning and repentance from the greatest. . . = Everyone in Nineveh heeded Yahweh's words through Jonah, and they all participated in the offering of repentance to the Lord.Jonah's message had an extraordinary effect upon the people in Nineveh. They understood that Yahweh had sent Jonah to declare this message on Yahweh's behalf. So they gave careful attention to what Jonah was saying. They believed that Yahweh had made his judgment against them. They had just 40 days until the time when they, and their great city, would suffer a terrible punishment. In that punishment, they would lose their lives and everything that they possessed.Join me as we go Chapter by Chapter, Verse by Verse, Unraveling the Words of Yahweh!Have any questions? Feel free to email me; keitner2024@outlook.com 

Dr. David Swanson | Jonah 1:1-12Jonah is famous for his disobedience, but more than that, we see that he did not love the Ninevites and remains angry even at the end. We are all works in progress - sometimes, God leaves the end of the story up in the air.

In this week's sermon, Pastor John walks through Jonah 3 and how the Ninevites repented which leads to our repentance. More so, it leads to our unreserved yes to the God of all creation.

This episode is all about Ba'utha (Supplication of the Ninevites): a liturgical mini-season of the Chaldean rite that involves fasting and prayer. We discuss the origins of Ba'utha, its theological significance, and share our personal experiences of fasting and praying during this time. Learn about the story of Jonah and its connection to Ba'utha, as well as the importance of fasting in fostering spiritual growth. At the end, we enjoy a favorite snack that's commonly eaten during Ba'utha and Lent.  Featuring: Fr. Simon Esshaki, Fr. Daniel Shaba, and Fr. Ankido Sipo

In this episode of Arise+Abide, Sally and Curtis delve into Jonah Chapter 3, exploring the remarkable story of Nineveh's repentance. Following Jonah's deliverance from the belly of the great fish, God gives him a second chance to deliver His message to the people of Nineveh. The hosts reflect on Jonah's obedience, the simplicity and power of his prophecy, and the profound response of the Ninevites, from the king to the common people. They discuss themes of humility, repentance, and God's eagerness to show mercy to those who turn from their wicked ways. This episode challenges listeners to examine their own lives: Are we stepping down from the thrones we've placed ourselves on and putting God first? Tune in for an inspiring conversation about obedience, transformation, and the boundless compassion of God.   Follow-Up Questions: How might the speakers' insights on obedience and humility apply to the listeners' own lives and faith journeys? [07:08] What other examples from the Bible or personal experiences could the speakers draw upon to further illustrate the themes of God's compassion and mercy? [10:51] How can the listeners actively seek to make God's character known to those around them, as the speakers emphasize is the purpose of God's interactions with His people?

When Jonah's preaching successfully causes the Ninevites to repent, why does he react with anger?Support us on Patreon for access to our series on the Gospel of JohnApply for Saint Paul's House of FormationEmail usMusic by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications 

This week, Pastor Joie Miller preaches from The Book of Jonah, a biblical showcase of the consequences of pursuing what we want to do versus what we are called to do. After God instructed Jonah to go to Nineveh, Jonah fled from the seaport at Joppa instead. While Jonah tried to use his feelings towards the Ninevites to justify his actions, God had called him to go because he wanted him to grow. This year, reflect on the Joppas you're justifying. Like Jonah, God will take you through to get you to.

This week, Pastor Joie Miller preaches from The Book of Jonah, a biblical showcase of the consequences of pursuing what we want to do versus what we are called to do. After God instructed Jonah to go to Nineveh, Jonah fled from the seaport at Joppa instead. While Jonah tried to use his feelings towards the Ninevites to justify his actions, God had called him to go because he wanted him to grow. This year, reflect on the Joppas you're justifying. Like Jonah, God will take you through to get you to.

We are Jonah Updated: Dec 28, 2024   Jonah 1:1-3 NIV   1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.” 3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.         Psalm 139:7-12 NIV   Where can I go from your Spirit?   Where can I flee from your presence?   8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;   if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.   9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,   if I settle on the far side of the sea,   10 even there your hand will guide me,   your right hand will hold me fast.   11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me   and the light become night around me,”   12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;   the night will shine like the day,   for darkness is as light to you.       Jonah 1:4-17 NIV   4 Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up. 5 All the sailors were afraid and each cried out to his own god. And they threw the cargo into the sea to lighten the ship. But Jonah had gone below deck, where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep. 6 The captain went to him and said, “How can you sleep? Get up and call on your god! Maybe he will take notice of us so that we will not perish.” 7 Then the sailors said to each other, “Come, let us cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity.” They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. 8 So they asked him, “Tell us, who is responsible for making all this trouble for us? What kind of work do you do? Where do you come from? What is your country? From what people are you?” 9 He answered, “I am a Hebrew and I worship the LORD, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.”   10 This terrified them and they asked, “What have you done?” (They knew he was running away from the Lord, because he had already told them so.) 11 The sea was getting rougher and rougher. So they asked him, “What should we do to you to make the sea calm down for us?”   12 “Pick me up and throw me into the sea,” he replied, “and it will become calm. I know that it is my fault that this great storm has come upon you.”   13 Instead, the men did their best to row back to land. But they could not, for the sea grew even wilder than before. 14 Then they cried out to the Lord, “Please, Lord, do not let us die for taking this man's life. Do not hold us accountable for killing an innocent man, for you, Lord, have done as you pleased.” 15 Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. 16 At this the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him.   17 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 2:1-10 NIV   2 1 From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God. 2 He said:   “In my distress I called to the Lord,   and he answered me.   From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help,   and you listened to my cry.   3 You hurled me into the depths,   into the very heart of the seas,   and the currents swirled about me;   all your waves and breakers   swept over me.   4 I said, ‘I have been banished   from your sight;   yet I will look again   toward your holy temple.'   5 The engulfing waters threatened me,   the deep surrounded me;   seaweed was wrapped around my head.   6 To the roots of the mountains I sank down;   the earth beneath barred me in forever.   But you, Lord my God,   brought my life up from the pit.   7 “When my life was ebbing away,   I remembered you, Lord,   and my prayer rose to you,   to your holy temple.   8 “Those who cling to worthless idols   turn away from God's love for them.   9 But I, with shouts of grateful praise,   will sacrifice to you.   What I have vowed I will make good.   I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the Lord.'”   10 And the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.       Jonah 3:1-3 NIV   3 Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time: 2 “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.”   3 Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord and went to Nineveh. Now Nineveh was a very large city; it took three days to go through it.                                                 2 Chronicles 32:9 ESV   9 After this, Sennacherib king of Assyria, who was besieging Lachish with all his forces, sent his servants to Jerusalem to Hezekiah king of Judah and to all the people of Judah who were in Jerusalem       Isaiah 36:1 ESV   In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah, Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against all the fortified cities of Judah and took them.       Isaiah 37:1 ESV   As soon as King Hezekiah heard it, he tore his clothes and covered himself with sackcloth and went into the house of the Lord.       Isaiah 37:36-37 ESV   36 And the angel of the Lord went out and struck down 185,000 in the camp of the Assyrians. And when people arose early in the morning, behold, these were all dead bodies. 37 Then Sennacherib king of Assyria departed and returned home and lived at Nineveh.       Jonah 3:4-10 NIV   4 Jonah began by going a day's journey into the city, proclaiming, “Forty more days and Nineveh will be overthrown.”   5 The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. 6 When Jonah's warning reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the dust.   7 This is the proclamation he issued in Nineveh:   “By the decree of the king and his nobles:   Do not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything; do not let them eat or drink. 8 But let people and animals be covered with sackcloth. Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. 9 Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish.”   10 When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened.       Jonah 4:1-3 NIV   4 But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. 2 He prayed to the Lord, “Isn't this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall (prevent) by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. 3 Now, Lord, take away my life, for it is better for me to die than to live.”       Jonah 4:4-11 NIV   4 But the Lord replied, “Is it right for you to be angry?”   5 Jonah had gone out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city.6 Then the Lord God provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the plant. 7 But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the plant so that it withered. 8 When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah's head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, “It would be better for me to die than to live.”   9 But God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry about the plant?”   “It is,” he said. “And I'm so angry I wish I were dead.”   10 But the Lord said, “You have been concerned about this plant, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. 11 And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?”      

 Is our world in a hopeless condition?  The indications that it is are multiplying. The nations are too self-centred to take any effective action over global warming and the weather is getting more extreme.  The United Nations are more disunited than ever over many issues, especially over Israel. The money woes of the nations increase and move from crisis to crisis; efforts to achieve disarmament are useless, the economies of some nations depend on making and selling weapons! And above all, efforts at moral reform no longer exist, instead laws are relaxed to allow many unnatural kinds of behaviour, ways of living God deplores. We saw a lesson related to that last point as we completed reading the prophecy of Nahum against Nineveh today. It had repented at the preaching of Jonah, but the following generations had gone back to their old ways; doom is now pronounced by God, Nahum's concluding words to them are – “upon whom has not come your unceasing evil.” Through his prophet Zephaniah God said, “I will make Nineveh a desolation, a dry waste like the desert.” [2 v.13]  And it happened. As we start reading Peter's letters we see how appropriate they are for us.  His urgent message is for believers to have a strong faith, to remain steadfast as trials increase.  He writes of “the tested genuineness of your faith – more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire – may be found to result in praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [1 v.7]  The whole chapter is a powerful message, but we took special note of v.13, “Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”   No half measures will be adequate; as the world becomes even more hopeless,  Peter tells them, “you have been born again” [v.23] and then tells them how!  “Born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God.”  The seed of God's message must “abide” in our hearts if we really want to prepare “our minds for action.”   Jonah's message to Nineveh had proved to be perishable, the children did not learn the lesson as their parents had.  If we are to succeed where the Ninevites failed how vital it is for us to feed on and digest God's word every day.  

Send us a textAfter his homerun in Nineveh, Jonah went into a depression. HE preached and the whole city got saved and he became angry. Why would Jonah be so angry at such a successful ministry? That's because he hated what God loved. God loves repentance that leads to salvation. for Jonah, he hated the salvation of the Ninevites. This sent him spiraling down and again, he ran from God.Another lesson we will learn is do not repeat behavior that didn't work the first time.Wil Jonah ever learn? Let's listen and see.

Yes, you read the sermon title right. If the Gospel was fair, and we got what we fairly deserved, then we'd be eternally separated from God. As we finish our journey through the book of Jonah, we see what happens when Jonah finds God's compassion for the Ninevites to be unfair.

We will continue our exploration of the Narrative Lectionary by studying the familiar story of Jonah. While Jonah is most well-known for the three days and nights he spent in the belly of a fish, few remember why Jonah found himself in such a peculiar predicament. More than simply setting up the story of Jonah's fishy lodging place, the scripture lesson will teach us a great deal about both the beautiful and brutal dimensions of God's call. As we worship, we may find ourselves relating to Jonah, the sailors, the Ninevites, or potentially, each. Regardless of where we find ourselves this morning, Jonah's story has a powerful word to speak to each of us and God's world. Sermon delivered on Jonah 1:1-17 by the Reverend David J. Powers on November 10, 2024.

Pastor Christian Powell preaches to the Faith Church congregation on Wednesday night, October 30, 2024. This is the 7th week of his series on the minor prophets titled "God Still Speaks: Major Truth From The Minor Prophets". Week 7 deals with the book of Nahum. The Book of Nahum is God's pronouncement of judgment on the Ninevites (the Assyrians). This message comes from the text in Nahum 1:1-8.

Julie and Liz kayaked off the coast of California, scouting for humpback whales. Humpbacks are known for being active near the surface, making them easy to spot. The two women got the surprise of their lives when one surfaced directly underneath them. An onlooker caught footage of their encounter that showed the large mouth of the whale dwarfing the women and their kayaks. After briefly going underwater, the women escaped unharmed. Their experience offers perspective on the biblical account of the prophet Jonah being swallowed by a “huge fish” (Jonah 1:17). God had instructed him to preach to the Ninevites but because they’d rejected God, Jonah didn’t feel they were worthy of His forgiveness. Instead of obeying, he ran away in the opposite direction and took passage on a ship. God sent a dangerous storm, and he was thrown overboard. God provided a way to preserve Jonah from certain death on the high seas, sparing him the far-worse consequences of his actions (though three days in the belly of a massive fish doesn’t appeal much either). Jonah “called to the Lord” and God listened (2:2). After Jonah admitted his wrongdoing and expressed his praise and acknowledgment of God’s goodness, he was—at His command—expelled from the fish “onto dry land” (v. 10). By God’s grace, when we acknowledge our wrongdoings and express faith in Jesus’ sacrifice, we’re spared the spiritual death we deserve and experience new life through Him.

Today's Topics: 1) Father Charles Murr joins Terry Gospel - LK 11:29-32 - While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment  the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation  and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here.” Memorial of Saint Callistus I, Pope and Martyr Saint Callistus, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day

Gospel Luke 11:29-32 While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment  the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here.” Reflection In the Old Testament, God used prophets and kings to present things to people that they would have to understand and fathom and grow into the truth of what he was teaching them. The same is now true in the New Testament. But Jesus underscores one crucial element. No one is going to be open to the signs that God has given unless they have a spirit of openness, wonder, curiosity, and a willingness to change. It's a challenge for all of us to read the signs today that are around us, and we need to be more open and receptive to whatever God is trying to show us today. Closing Prayer Father, open our heart, open our minds, open our spirit to what is out there to teach us. Help us to ponder things, wonder about things, spend times reflecting so we can find the kingdom of God that is in our midst. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them,“This generation is an evil generation;it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it,except the sign of Jonah.Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites,so will the Son of Man be to this generation.At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generationand she will condemn them,because she came from the ends of the earthto hear the wisdom of Solomon,and there is something greater than Solomon here.At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it,because at the preaching of Jonah they repented,and there is something greater than Jonah here.”

Read Online“This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation.” Luke 11:29–30Do you ever find yourself looking for signs from God? Often when we go through life, navigating through the ups and downs we all experience, we can easily find ourselves looking for signs from God about what we should do about this or that. And though God certainly communicates to us at times through special graces that are signs from Heaven, the passage above gives clarity to what sign we must be most attentive to.The simple message in this Gospel passage from our Lord is that we must discover the meaning of the most profound sign ever given and use that as the foundation of all our decisions in life. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection were not only the source of eternal life, they are also the clearest sign we need as we make all of our decisions in life.A sign is some action that reveals a deep and hidden mystery. One mystery that Jesus' life, death and resurrection reveals is that if we are to share in the new life won for us by His Cross, then we must follow the example He set by living a life of selfless sacrifice, laying down our lives for others, so that they will discover and embrace the new life of Christ's Resurrection. Practically speaking, if you find yourself looking for answers in life, seeking signs from God about what you should do at times, then turn your eyes to the life of Christ and ponder ways in which you can more fully imitate His life in every daily practical decision you make. This is true whether you are discerning some important decision in life or some small practical decision. It is common to engage in such a discernment by looking at ourselves in a more selfish way. It's difficult to move away from this line of thinking, but if we are to use the “sign” of the Son of Man, then we will discern our life decisions very differently. When we use the life, death and resurrection of our Lord as the source of our discernment and decision making in life, then we will end up making decisions that imitate His selfless sacrifice of love. So if you are faced with a decision, you will not ponder what is easier or what you prefer; rather, you will ponder what is more selfless and best for others. What is it that best imitates the sacrificial love of Jesus?Reflect, today, upon any decision you are trying to make. Then reflect upon how you are going about this decision. Do you use the witness Jesus gave to us as the foundation of your discernment? Do you reflect upon how you can lay your life down as a sacrificial gift for others? Do you look at love from the point of view of the Cross of our Lord and strive to imitate His glorious and selfless dedication to the salvation of those whom He loves? Seek to imitate our Lord, using the witness of His actions as the foundation of all of your discernment and decisions in life, and you will have discovered the only true sign you need to navigate the challenges of life.My perfect Lord, every decision You made in life was made out of love and was in accord with the perfect will of the Father. Give me the grace I need to make every decision in life in imitation of Your perfect example. May my life imitate You as You laid down Your life for others. I choose You and Your glorious sacrificial life as the sign by which I am directed in life. Jesus, I trust in You.  Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2024 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.Featured image above: by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay

Do artists get exceedingly angry when their art is chosen for display at the Met? No! So why would Jonah get exceedingly angry when, in response to his preaching, the Ninevites actually turn away from violence and turn to the living God?  The answer has to do with the love of God. The incredible collapse of Jonah is because he misunderstands God's love. And the collapses in our lives may very well have the same roots. So let's look now at how God's love is a patient love.  Let's ask two questions: 1) why is God's patient love not more operative and powerful in our lives? and 2) how can God's patient love be more operative and powerful in our lives? This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on September 2, 1990. Series: Jonah. Scripture: Jonah 4:1-10. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

There's a subplot in the book Jonah: it's Jonah's impact on the sailors and their impact on him. Do you see the exquisite irony here? Jonah runs away because he hates the dirty pagan Ninevites. He doesn't think they can change and he doesn't care enough to want them to change. But then, Jonah ends up sacrificing himself for dirty pagan sailors. The very truth missing from Jonah's mind and heart is imparted even as God seeks him. Let's see what this shows us about how we should regard the world. Here is what the sailors teach us: 1) every human being has a deep, spiritual longing, but 2) in our natural state our deep, spiritual longings are distorted by fear. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on August 5, 1990. Series: Jonah. Scripture: Jonah 1:4-16. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.