JONAH 2:1-10
Jonah has been thrown overboard and rescued by God who sent a great fish to swallow him up. He miraculously survives in the belly of the fish for three days and three nights. Chapter 2 captures Jonah’s desperate prayer from inside the belly of the fish. Jonah is brought to a place of spiritual desperation, a place where he can recognize his great sin and God’s great grace.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
HEAD: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
2:1 begins, “Then Jonah prayed…”. Why is this so significant in light of what took place and Jonah’s attitude in Chapter 1?
In verses 2-7 (Jonah’s Prayer), how does Jonah describe his situation at see? How dire is it?
HEART: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God.
Jonah is clearly aware of how close he came to physical death, but there is a greater concern for Jonah. What’s at the heart of Jonah’s prayer for help? How can you relate to Jonah here?
Jonah recognizes both his need for forgiveness (due to his sinfulness). He also recognizes the immensity of God’s love and grace (“Salvation comes from the Lord” v.9). What happens if you deny either of these aspects of God’s character?
HANDS: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
God used a terrifying and dangerous storm to pursue sinners. In v.3 Jonah rightly recognizes God’s sovereign hand in his situation. What does this teach us about the “storms” of this life (ie. trials and difficulties)? What are some examples from your own life of “storms” being instruments of God’s grace to reveal your idols (v.8) and draw you back to him?
Jonah’s prayer is reflective of the Psalms. He had stored up God’s word in his mind and, in a time of spiritual desperation, he prayed these prayers from God’s word. Describe your prayer life. How much is God’s word a part of your prayers? How might memorizing and praying through passages of scripture strengthen your life with Jesus?
DIG DEEPER