Far too often the significance of this Minor Prophet is completely overlooked as people concentrate on the issue of the "great fish." Jonah is no fish story. It is a carefully crafted literary work whose importance for the formation of an adequate theology for the Christian community far exceeds its length. The book of Jonah is written along the lines of a short story, with balanced scenes to teach an ironic lesson of God's justice, love, and freedom.
This one-session study uncovers the real story of Jonah, which presents a timeless challenge to faithful people who don't accept or preach God's unlimited grace. Participants will uncover the riches of the story by learning just why a Jewish prophet would not want to prophecy to the people God chose to save. They will then be challenged to see the relevance of the story in our communities today.