JONAH
READING PLAN + STUDY QUESTIONS
READING PLAN
JONAH’S REBELLION LEADS HIM TO THE BELLY OF A FISH
JONAH’S MESSAGE, NINEVEH’S REPENTANCE, + GOD’S MERCY
HOW TO USE
READ THE CHAPTERS IN THE BIBLE FOR EACH SESSION
ANSWER THE QUESTIONS + REFLECT ON THE READING
This study encourages going at your own pace, allowing each session to be a day, a week, or however long you need. Each session contains questions to be used for individual reflection or small group discussion.
This study was made to be used alongside Bible reading. Although we have created chapter summaries, there is no substitute for reading God's Word.
SESSION ONE: JONAH 1-2
JONAH’S REBELLION LEADS HIM TO THE BELLY OF A FISH
Look at Tarshish, Joppa, and Nineveh on a map. In which direction is Nineveh from Tarshish? In which direction is Joppa?
In Jonah 1:10, what did Jonah confess that he was fleeing from? Have you ever tried to outrun God’s presence in your life?
How did the sailors in Jonah 1 show greater faith in God than Jonah did? What does this reveal about what God wanted to do in Nineveh?
Read Matthew 12:38-42. How did Jesus use the story of Jonah to foreshadow His death and resurrection?
In Jonah 2:2, Jonah stated that he was in “the belly of Sheol.” Using a study Bible or internet search, look up the meaning of “sheol.” How does this word contribute to the foreshadowing of Jesus’ death and resurrection?
In Jonah 2:7, Jonah stated the he remembered God when his life was fainting away. How could this verse give you hope for loved ones who have not yet put their faith in Jesus?
How did Jonah compare the steadfast hope found in God with the emptiness of idol worship (Jonah 2:8)?
SESSION TWO: JONAH 3-4
JONAH’S MESSAGE, NINEVEH’S REPENTANCE, + GOD’S MERCY
How would you describe Jonah’s message in 3:4? Would you say that it is thoughtful, thorough, or genuine?
Despite the short length of Jonah’s message, how did the people of Nineveh respond? How did God react to their repentance?
After seeing God’s mercy towards Nineveh, how did Jonah respond? Why do you think Jonah reacted this way after also receiving God’s mercy?
In Jonah 4:3, Jonah stated that he knew God’s character. How might Jonah have known this about God (see Exodus 34:6-7)?
What does the story of the plant and the shade reveal about Jonah? What does it reveal about God?
How can it be difficult to see God extend love and mercy to our enemies? How can it be challenging to admit that God loves our enemies?
What does Jonah’s story teach us about God’s patience and purpose for all people?
Way to go! You finished the book of Jonah.
Thank you for reading through the Bible with Everyday Scripture.
Keep going — the next book of Old Testament Prophecy is Micah!