To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:
Have your group read Jonah 3:1-4 and discuss the following questions.
- How long do you think it took Jonah to decide to obey the word of the Lord?
- How do you think Jonah felt as he traveled to Nineveh?
- How would you describe Jonah’s message? Does it include any hope?
Have your group read Jonah 3:5-10 and discuss the following questions.
- How would you describe the response of the king of Nineveh (who was almost surely the powerful king of the entire nation of Assyria) to Jonah’s message?
- How would you describe the king’s proclamation to the people?
- How do you think Jonah felt about the Ninevites’ response to his message?
- What would account for their response?
- What would account for God’s response in return?
- What lessons does this story teach us about God’s character and will—and about our participation in his plans?
To encourage personal application:
Consider dividing into groups of three or four people for the following time of sharing and prayer.
- How can you relate to Jonah—being given a second chance by God? How did you respond to that second chance?
- How can you relate to the Ninevites—sincerely responding to God’s warning?
- Where or what is your “Nineveh” right now—a calling from God that requires your response?
Close with a time of prayer. Thank God for giving us second (and third) chances. Commit yourself to responding to his warnings and saying yes to his callings.