Old Testament · Narrative / Prophecy
The Book of Jonah
The mercy of God reaches even our enemies — and our hard hearts.
A reluctant prophet learns that God's compassion is wider than his prejudice.
Author and background of Jonah
Author
Anonymous (about Jonah)
Date written
c. 760 BC
Original audience
Israel.
8th-century BC Assyria.
Major themes of Jonah
The theology of Jonah centers on god's character and glory and sin, grace, and redemption. Trace these threads as you read.
God's character and glory
Every page reveals more of who God is — His holiness, mercy, and steadfast love.
Sin, grace, and redemption
Scripture diagnoses our brokenness honestly and points us to the rescue God provides.
Covenant and promise
God binds Himself to His people in faithful, unbreakable promises fulfilled in Christ.
Worship and obedience
Faith expresses itself in a life of worship, repentance, and joyful obedience.
Key characters in Jonah
Jonah
Reluctant prophet.
The Ninevites
Surprising converts.
Every chapter of Jonah explained
Verse-by-verse explanations and reflections for every chapter of Jonah — ideal for personal study, devotionals, and small group discussion.
Key verses from Jonah
"You are a gracious God and merciful."
How to apply Jonah today
Jonah is not just history — it is God's Word for your life this week. Try these practical steps:
- Read prayerfully, asking the Spirit to teach and convict you.
- Identify one truth about God and one truth about yourself in every chapter.
- Look for Christ — every book testifies of Him (Luke 24:27).
- Turn what you read into prayer and obedience this week.
Pray Jonah back to God
- Father, open my eyes to behold wondrous things in Your Word (Ps. 119:18).
- Lord, give me a soft heart that trembles at Your Word (Isa. 66:2).
- Spirit of God, conform me to Christ as I read.
- Help me to be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only (James 1:22).
Study Jonah more deeply
Explore themes, characters, historical context, application guides, and devotionals built for Jonah.
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The Prodigal Prophet — Tim Keller
Jonah and the mystery of God's mercy.
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Jonah — Sinclair Ferguson (Man Overboard)
Short, rich walk through Jonah.
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A journal for notes, prayer, and reflection as you work through this content.
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Jonah — frequently asked questions
+Who wrote the book of Jonah?
Anonymous (about Jonah) — written around c. 760 BC.
+What is the main message of Jonah?
The mercy of God reaches even our enemies — and our hard hearts.
+How many chapters are in Jonah?
Jonah has 4 chapters.
+Who was Jonah written to?
Israel.
+What are the key themes of Jonah?
God's character and glory; Sin, grace, and redemption; Covenant and promise; Worship and obedience.