Mercy for All Nations (Jonah 1:1–4:11)
The story of Jonah shows that God’s love reaches far beyond the borders of Israel. God called Jonah, a prophet, to go to the city of Nineveh and warn its people to turn from their evil ways. But Jonah refused. He didn’t want the people of Nineveh—known for their cruelty—to receive God’s mercy. Instead, he tried to run away by boarding a ship in the opposite direction.
God sent a powerful storm that threatened to sink the ship. Jonah realized the storm was a result of his disobedience, so he told the sailors to throw him into the sea. When they did, the storm stopped. God then sent a huge fish to swallow Jonah. Inside the fish, Jonah prayed and promised to obey God. After three days, the fish spit Jonah out on dry land.
Jonah finally went to Nineveh and preached God’s message. To his surprise, the people listened! They turned from their sins and asked God for forgiveness. Even the king humbled himself before God. Because they repented, God showed mercy and did not destroy the city.
Instead of rejoicing, Jonah became angry. He still wanted Nineveh to be punished. God gently reminded Jonah that His compassion is for everyone, not just for a single nation. God cares deeply about every person He created.
The story ends with a lesson: God desires that all people turn to Him and live. Jonah 1–4 teaches us that God’s mercy is wide and His love reaches even those we consider enemies. He calls us not only to obey Him, but also to share His compassion with others.