Jonah

1.Historical background and purpose of the prophet:

Jonah was a contemporary of Jeroboam II of Israel(782-753BC) who ministered after the time of Elisha and just before the time of Amos and Hosea. Assyria, a nation which had achieved a near-legendary reputation for cruelty, was in mild decline during these years, but it remained a threat. The repentance of Nineveh probably occurred in the reign of Ashurdan III (773-755BC). This book served to challenge the nationalistic pride of Israel. And, this book shows God's gracious extension of His mercy to Gentile nations.

2.What does this book show about the Character and Nature of God?

Through the Jonah's complaint, we can find God’s love forward people “~ I knew you are a 1)Merciful and 2)Compassionate God, 3)Slow to get angry and 4)Filled with unfailing love. You are 5)eager to turn back from destroying people(4:2).  Furthermore, through the context of this book we can find He is God who persuade people when they have opposite opinion and likes the sincere repentance of us.

3.What does this book show you about God's redemptive plan for mankind?

Through the verse 4:10, we can find that God knows that we are so selfish and jealous that we complain even about the God's grace for the other people. So, He probably could feel something very different and powerful salvation plan. And, it was actualized through Jesus Christ.

4.Personal application:

My mindset is very similar to Jonah's. Even though I am created by God, I always try to judge and evaluate Him. So, every time I'm complaining about God's working, I have to remind that I'm a creature of Him.

5.Point of Passion Assignment

I want to help nonbelievers to know and believe in God. For this I have to show them that I don't complain about any kinds of conditions which God allowed, and reveal joyful life as one of christian.    -end-