Summary of the book of Jonah

Author:

The book of Jonah, according to Jonah 1:1, narrates the story of the prophet Jonah. While the text is presented in the third person, the prevailing belief is that Jonah himself wrote the book with no compelling reason to consider an unknown author. 

 

Date of Writing:

The Book of Jonah is estimated to have been written between 793 and 758 B.C.

 

Purpose of Writing:

It revolves around themes of disobedience and revival. Jonah's ordeal inside the whale serves as a pivotal moment, during which he seeks deliverance and experiences a unique period of repentance. His initial act of disobedience not only leads to his personal revival but also sparks a resurgence among the Ninevites. Many regard the revival in Nineveh as one of the most significant evangelistic efforts in history.

 

Key Verses:

  • Jonah 1:3, But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.
  • Jonah 1:17, Now the LORD had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.
  • Jonah 2:2, And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice.
  • Jonah 3:10, And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that He had said that he would do unto them; and He did it not.

 

Brief Summary:

A concise summary reveals how Jonah's fear and pride prompt him to flee from God's instruction to preach repentance in Nineveh. Although initially resistant, Jonah eventually relents and fulfills his divine mission, witnessing a remarkable revival in the city. The story emphasizes themes of repentance, mercy, and God's sovereignty.

 

Foreshadowings:

Furthermore, the parallels between Jonah and Christ are underscored, as evidenced in Matthew 12:40–41, where Jesus draws comparisons between His own ministry and that of Jonah. This connection highlights the message of repentance, salvation, and God's mercy conveyed through both figures.

 

Practical Application:

The practical application of the Book of Jonah emphasizes the inevitability of God's plans, regardless of our reluctance or objections. It urges readers to submit to God's will promptly and embrace His love, which transcends boundaries of nationality and race, offering salvation to all who seek it. Christians are called to share the Gospel and rejoice in the redemption of others, embodying God's inclusive and forgiving love.