CREATIVE · Part 1: Prayer Motivators • Read Jonah 2:1-10. (Printed below.) 2:1 Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the belly of the fish, 2 saying, “I called to the Lord

JONAHThe Sign Of

A B i B l e S t u d y— i N S i x S e S S i O N S —

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Leader’s Guide

CREATIVE JONAH

CREATIVE JONAHThe Sign Of

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table of ContentsSession 1: god is Calling

Page 6

Session 2: Saved in the StormPage 10

Session 3: Our Providing godPage 16

Session 4: Praying in the Belly of the great Big FishPage 20

Session 5: the god of the Second ChancePage 26

Session 6: About FacePage 30

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Session 2: Saved in the Storm

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Session 2: Saved in the StormPage 10

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Session 3: Our Providing

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Session 4: Praying in the Belly of the

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Session 5:

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Session 6: About Face

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introduction

these Bible studies for lent, written by seminary professor dr. Reed lessing, are based on the Book of Jonah and explore the striking connections we encounter in the disciplines of lent. these Bible studies correspond to the worship series of the same name. lessing’s academic expertise and his advanced knowledge of the background and language of the text of Jonah provide provocative insights into the character of Jonah and what our character will be as we follow Christ.

each session highlights a certain section of the Book of Jonah and concentrates on a prevalent theme in these particular verses, applying the theme to the story of Jonah and the story of our own lives this lent. After reading a passage of Jonah at the start of each session, we as participants in this Bible study will dive into the historical background of the text. then we will evaluate the motivations of the characters. Next, we will consult other parts of Scripture to gain a better understanding of the theme for the session. Finally, discussion questions are given to enhance our application of the session’s theme to the modern-day world.

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of the background and language of the text CREATIVE

of the background and language of the text of Jonah provide provocative insights into the CREATIVE

of Jonah provide provocative insights into the character of Jonah and what our character will CREATIVE

character of Jonah and what our character will

ach session highlights a certain section of the

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ach session highlights a certain section of the Book of Jonah and concentrates on a prevalent

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Book of Jonah and concentrates on a prevalent theme in these particular verses, applying the

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theme in these particular verses, applying the theme to the story of Jonah and the story of

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theme to the story of Jonah and the story of

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of the worship series of the same name. COMMUNICATIONS

the worship series of the same name. academic expertise and his advanced knowledge

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academic expertise and his advanced knowledge of the background and language of the text

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of the background and language of the text of Jonah provide provocative insights into the

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of Jonah provide provocative insights into the character of Jonah and what our character will

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character of Jonah and what our character will be as we follow Christ.

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be as we follow Christ.

ach session highlights a certain section of the

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ach session highlights a certain section of the Book of Jonah and concentrates on a prevalent

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Book of Jonah and concentrates on a prevalent theme in these particular verses, applying the

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theme in these particular verses, applying the theme to the story of Jonah and the story of

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theme to the story of Jonah and the story of

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ent. After reading a passage

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ent. After reading a passage of Jonah at the start of each session, we as

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of Jonah at the start of each session, we as participants in this Bible study will dive into

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participants in this Bible study will dive into the historical background of the text.

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the historical background of the text. t

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then

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hen we

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we will evaluate the motivations of the characters.

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will evaluate the motivations of the characters. Next, we will consult other parts of Scripture

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Next, we will consult other parts of Scripture to gain a better understanding of the theme

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to gain a better understanding of the theme for the session. Finally, discussion questions are

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for the session. Finally, discussion questions are

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our own lives this SAMPLES

our own lives this of Jonah at the start of each session, we as SAMPLES

of Jonah at the start of each session, we as participants in this Bible study will dive into SAMPLES

participants in this Bible study will dive into the historical background of the text.

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the historical background of the text.

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will evaluate the motivations of the characters.

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will evaluate the motivations of the characters. Next, we will consult other parts of Scripture

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Next, we will consult other parts of Scripture to gain a better understanding of the theme

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to gain a better understanding of the theme for the session. Finally, discussion questions are

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for the session. Finally, discussion questions are

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given to enhance our application of the session’s

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given to enhance our application of the session’s theme to the modern-day world.

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tips For using this Study guide

1. Always begin each session with a prayer. One is included for each session. you are encouraged to expand each of them with prayer concerns from the group.

2. Feel free to follow the format of each session as presented here or rearrange and adapt the material to meet the needs of your group.

3. Have your Bible handy for referencing verses in this study guide. it may also be interesting to have a different translation of Scripture than you are used to using to get a fresh perspective and perhaps broaden your understanding.

4. As you work through the material in this study guide, be sure to write down in the margins any questions that come to mind or any thoughts that arise in the course of the discussion and your contemplation on each session’s Scripture verses.

5. throughout each session, think about ways in which you personally would react to the situations Jonah, the sailors or the Ninevites find themselves in. the section entitled “discussion/Application” will help you focus your reflections on this. if there is not time to get to that section, it would be ideal for use in your personal devotional time during the week.

6. if you are using this guide in a group setting, consider assigning Bible verses to various people in the class to look up and read aloud at the appropriate time, rather than having everyone look up every verse. this will move the session along more efficiently.

Note that some of the questions ask for facts. typically, the answers to these questions will come from the Scripture verses just read. Other questions are more subjective, asking for your opinion or an example from your own experience. Since your life experiences are different from anyone else’s, answers to these questions are neither right nor wrong.

A leader’s guide that accompanies this material is available from Creative Communications for the Parish (Code JB-l).

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down in the margins any questions that come to mind or any thoughts CREATIVE

down in the margins any questions that come to mind or any thoughts that arise in the course of the discussion and your contemplation on

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that arise in the course of the discussion and your contemplation on each session’s Scripture verses.

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each session’s Scripture verses.

5.

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5. t

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thr

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hroughout each session, think about ways in which you personally

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oughout each session, think about ways in which you personally would react to the situations Jonah, the sailors or the Ninevites find

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would react to the situations Jonah, the sailors or the Ninevites find themselves in.

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themselves in. t

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the

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he help you focus your reflections on this.

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help you focus your reflections on this. to that section, it would be ideal for use in your personal devotional

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to that section, it would be ideal for use in your personal devotional time during the week.

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time during the week.

f you are using this guide in a group setting, consider assigning Bible

CREATIVE f you are using this guide in a group setting, consider assigning Bible

verses to various people in the class to look up and read aloud at the

CREATIVE verses to various people in the class to look up and read aloud at the appropriate time, rather than having everyone look up every verse.

CREATIVE appropriate time, rather than having everyone look up every verse.

his will move the session along mor

CREATIVE his will move the session along more efficiently.

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Note that some of the questions ask for facts.

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CREATIVE to these questions will come from the Scripture verses just read. Other

CREATIVE to these questions will come from the Scripture verses just read. Other questions are more subjective, asking for your opinion or an example

CREATIVE questions are more subjective, asking for your opinion or an example from your own experience. Since your life experiences are different from

CREATIVE from your own experience. Since your life experiences are different from

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to that section, it would be ideal for use in your personal devotional

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to that section, it would be ideal for use in your personal devotional time during the week.

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time during the week.

6.

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6. i

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if you are using this guide in a group setting, consider assigning Bible

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f you are using this guide in a group setting, consider assigning Bible verses to various people in the class to look up and read aloud at the

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verses to various people in the class to look up and read aloud at the appropriate time, rather than having everyone look up every verse.

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appropriate time, rather than having everyone look up every verse. t

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this will move the session along mor

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his will move the session along mor


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to these questions will come from the Scripture verses just read. Other

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to these questions will come from the Scripture verses just read. Other questions are more subjective, asking for your opinion or an example

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questions are more subjective, asking for your opinion or an example from your own experience. Since your life experiences are different from

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from your own experience. Since your life experiences are different from anyone else’s, answers to these questions are neither right nor wrong.

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anyone else’s, answers to these questions are neither right nor wrong.

uide that accompanies this material is available from

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uide that accompanies this material is available from Creative Communications for the Parish (Code JB-

COMMUNICATIONS Creative Communications for the Parish (Code JB-l

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SAMPLESNote that some of the questions ask for facts.

SAMPLESNote that some of the questions ask for facts.

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SAMPLESto these questions will come from the Scripture verses just read. Other

SAMPLESto these questions will come from the Scripture verses just read. Other questions are more subjective, asking for your opinion or an example

SAMPLESquestions are more subjective, asking for your opinion or an example from your own experience. Since your life experiences are different from

SAMPLESfrom your own experience. Since your life experiences are different from anyone else’s, answers to these questions are neither right nor wrong.

SAMPLESanyone else’s, answers to these questions are neither right nor wrong.

eader’s

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SAMPLESguide that accompanies this material is available from

SAMPLESuide that accompanies this material is available from Creative Communications for the Parish (Code JB-

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Leader’s GuideFor Session 4

BEFORE CLASS: Read through this session yourself. Look up the Bible readings and become acquainted with them. If you plan on having members of the group read the Bible readings, put the citations on note cards to hand out prior to class.

READ: Have someone read the Opening Prayer or read the prayer in unison.

Session 4Praying in the Belly of the great Big Fish

( Jonah 2:1-10)

An Opening Prayer

Gracious Father, we come before you as sinful people in a fallen world. Despite our rebellion, you continue to bind yourself to us and deal with us not according to strict justice, but rather in ways that are consistently full of grace. Work in our hearts that, despite our efforts to evade your presence, we would be turned toward you and be saved from our sinful inclinations. Then we will all the more call upon you in the day of trouble for you will deliver us so that our lives honor you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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READ: Have someone read the Opening

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READ: Have someone read the Opening Prayer or read the prayer in unison.

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Prayer or read the prayer in unison.

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An Opening Prayer

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An Opening Prayer

Gracious Father, we come before you as sinful people

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Gracious Father, we come before you as sinful people in a fallen world. Despite our rebellion, you continue to

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in a fallen world. Despite our rebellion, you continue to bind yourself to us and deal with us not according to strict

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bind yourself to us and deal with us not according to strict justice, but rather in ways that are consistently full of grace.

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justice, but rather in ways that are consistently full of grace. Work in our hearts that, despite our efforts to evade your

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Work in our hearts that, despite our efforts to evade your presence, we would be turned toward you and be saved

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presence, we would be turned toward you and be saved from our sinful inclinations. Then we will all the more call

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from our sinful inclinations. Then we will all the more call

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An Opening PrayerSAMPLES

An Opening Prayer

Gracious Father, we come before you as sinful people

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Gracious Father, we come before you as sinful people in a fallen world. Despite our rebellion, you continue to

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in a fallen world. Despite our rebellion, you continue to bind yourself to us and deal with us not according to strict

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bind yourself to us and deal with us not according to strict justice, but rather in ways that are consistently full of grace.

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justice, but rather in ways that are consistently full of grace. Work in our hearts that, despite our efforts to evade your

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Work in our hearts that, despite our efforts to evade your presence, we would be turned toward you and be saved

SAMPLESpresence, we would be turned toward you and be saved from our sinful inclinations. Then we will all the more call

SAMPLESfrom our sinful inclinations. Then we will all the more call upon you in the day of trouble for you will deliver us so

SAMPLESupon you in the day of trouble for you will deliver us so that our lives honor you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

SAMPLESthat our lives honor you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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READ: Read or have a member of the class read the Synopsis of Theme.

SHARE: Allow participants to share with one another about childhood hiding places.

READ Jonah 2:1-10.

Synopsis of Theme

While Jonah in his psalm expresses the truth about Yahweh, his hypocritical, self-righteous behavior throughout the book forms a strong contrast with his prayer. Despite this, Yahweh continues to deal with Jonah graciously, by hearing his prayer, saving him from drowning and permanent residence in Sheol, and by being present with him in the belly of the great big fish.

Topic for Sharing/Ice Breaker

What was your favorite small hiding place as a child? How long could you stay there before you started feeling claustrophobic?

Part 1: Prayer Motivators

• Read Jonah 2:1-10. (Printed below.)

2:1 Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the belly of the fish, 2 saying,

“I called to the Lord out of my distress, and he answered me; out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and you heard my voice. 3 You cast me into the deep, into the heart of the seas, and the flood surrounded me; all your waves and your billows passed over me. 4 Then I said, ‘I am driven away from your sight;

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one another about childhood hiding CREATIVE

one another about childhood hiding What was your favorite small hiding place as a child? CREATIVE

What was your favorite small hiding place as a child? How long could you stay there before you started feeling

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How long could you stay there before you started feeling claustrophobic?

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claustrophobic?


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Read Jonah 2:1-10.

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Read Jonah 2:1-10.

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2:1 Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the

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belly of the fish, 2 saying,

“I called to the Lord out of my distress,

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out of the belly of Sheol I cried,

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SHARE: Allow participants to share with

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SHARE: Allow participants to share with one another about childhood hiding

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one another about childhood hiding

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2:1 Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the

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belly of the fish, 2 saying,

“I called to the Lord out of my distress,

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“I called to the Lord out of my distress, and he answered me;

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and he answered me;

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out of the belly of Sheol I cried,

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out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and you heard my voice.

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and you heard my voice. 3 You cast me into the deep,

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3 You cast me into the deep, into the heart of the seas,

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into the heart of the seas, and the flood surrounded me;

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and the flood surrounded me; all your waves and your billows

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all your waves and your billows

4 Then I said, ‘I am driven away

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4 Then I said, ‘I am driven away

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READ Jonah 2:1-10.SAMPLES

READ Jonah 2:1-10.SAMPLESand you heard my voice.

SAMPLESand you heard my voice. 3 You cast me into the deep,

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SAMPLESinto the heart of the seas, and the flood surrounded me;

SAMPLESand the flood surrounded me; all your waves and your billows

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SAMPLESpassed over me. 4 Then I said, ‘I am driven away

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1. This is Jonah’s first recorded prayer in the book, and he is only calling out to save his own scalp! He refuses to pray for the sailors and Ninevites, but only does so when his life is on the line. Twenty-four (!) first person singular forms (“I,” “me,” “mine”) in the Hebrew text indicate that Jonah is still focused on himself and not on the needs of the world around him.

2. These words are spoken by a northern prophet in the eighth century BC, a time when idolatrous shrines were set up in the northern Israelite cities of Dan and Bethel. There were intended to substitute for the true temple in Jerusalem (1 Ki 12:25–33). Jonah is affirming the true dwelling place of Yahweh in Solomon’s temple, thereby dismissing these northern shrines. In the New Testament God’s promises are located in Jesus Christ (2 Cor 1:21). He is the new temple (Jn 2:21) and through him we have access to the throne of grace (Rom 5:2; Eph 2:18; Heb 10:19–20). Indeed, all prayers are to be directed to the Father through Jesus (Jn 14:6).

3. Nowhere does the prophet express repentance or his willingness to go to Nineveh. Jonah speaks as a saint, but as we have seen in chapter 1, and as we will see in chapters 3 and 4, he often acts like a grumpy and moping child! In light of the prophet’s actions throughout the rest of the book, his affirmations in this psalm sound hollow. It is no wonder that the fish can’t stomach him for too long and vomits him out!

4. “Vomit” suggests repugnance toward Jonah. It shames him for his nationalistic pride that would withhold salvation from other people. Being vomited is a sign of God’s judgment (see Lev 18:25; 20:22; Rev 3:16).

how shall I look again upon your holy temple?’ 5 The waters closed in over me; the deep surrounded me; weeds were wrapped around my head 6 at the roots of the mountains. I went down to the land whose bars closed upon me forever; yet you brought up my life from the Pit, O Lord my God. 7 As my life was ebbing away, I remembered the Lord; and my prayer came to you, into your holy temple. 8 Those who worship vain idols forsake their true loyalty. 9 But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. Deliverance belongs to the Lord!”

10 Then the Lord spoke to the fish, and it spewed Jonah out upon the dry land.

1. What motivated Jonah to pray?

2. What is significant about the references to Yahweh’s holy temple (2:4, 7)?

3. What features of Jonah’s prayer are significant by their absence?

4. What does the fact that the fish “vomits” Jonah out (2:10) suggest?

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throne of grace (Rom 5:2; Eph 2:18;

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throne of grace (Rom 5:2; Eph 2:18; Heb 10:19–20). Indeed, all prayers are

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Heb 10:19–20). Indeed, all prayers are to be directed to the Father through

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CREATIVE Jesus (Jn 14:6).

Nowhere

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repentance or his willingness to go to

CREATIVE repentance or his willingness to go to Nineveh. Jonah speaks as a saint, but

CREATIVE Nineveh. Jonah speaks as a saint, but as we have seen in chapter 1, and as

CREATIVE as we have seen in chapter 1, and as we will see in chapters 3 and 4, he

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10 Then the Lord spoke to the fish, and it spewed Jonah

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whose bars closed upon me forever; COMMUNICATIONS

whose bars closed upon me forever; yet you brought up my life from the Pit, COMMUNICATIONS

yet you brought up my life from the Pit, O Lord my God. COMMUNICATIONS

O Lord my God. 7 As my life was ebbing away

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7 As my life was ebbing awayI remembered the Lord;

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I remembered the Lord; and my prayer came to you,

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and my prayer came to you, into your holy temple.

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into your holy temple. 8 Those who worship vain idols

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8 Those who worship vain idols

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as we have seen in chapter 1, and as

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as we have seen in chapter 1, and as we will see in chapters 3 and 4, he

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we will see in chapters 3 and 4, he often acts like a grumpy and moping

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often acts like a grumpy and moping child! In light of the prophet’s actions

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child! In light of the prophet’s actions throughout the rest of the book, his

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throughout the rest of the book, his affirmations in this psalm sound

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affirmations in this psalm sound hollow. It is no wonder that the fish

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hollow. It is no wonder that the fish can’t stomach him for too long and

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omit” suggests repugnance toward

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Jonah. It shames him for his nationalistic pride that would withhold salvation from other people. Being vomited

COMMUNICATIONS Jonah. It shames him for his nationalistic pride that would withhold salvation from other people. Being vomited

forsake their true loyalty.

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forsake their true loyalty. 9 But I with the voice of thanksgiving

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9 But I with the voice of thanksgiving

what I have vowed I will pay.

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what I have vowed I will pay. Deliverance belongs to the Lord!”

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Deliverance belongs to the Lord!”


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ahweh’s

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ahweh’s

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what I have vowed I will pay. SAMPLES

what I have vowed I will pay. Deliverance belongs to the Lord!” SAMPLES

Deliverance belongs to the Lord!”

10 Then the Lord spoke to the fish, and it spewed Jonah SAMPLES

10 Then the Lord spoke to the fish, and it spewed Jonah out upon the dry land.

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out upon the dry land.

What motivated Jonah to pray?

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What motivated Jonah to pray?

2. What is significant about the references to Y

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3. What features of Jonah’s prayer are significant by

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4. What does the fact that the fish “vomits” Jonah out

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1. 1:5: The sailor’s prayer to their pagan gods is motivated out of their fear of the storm.

1:6: This is a request by the captain who asks Jonah to pray to his God, but Jonah ignores the request.

1:14: This prayer by the sailors is different from 1:5. Since they have been converted through Jonah’s confession (1:9; see Rom 1:16), they petition Yahweh to spare their life before they throw Jonah overboard. God’s Word bears fruit mainly where it is least expected and, conversely, produces the least where the most is expected—in Jonah!

2:2–9: This is Jonah’s psalm of thanksgiving that he prayed while in the belly of the great fish. This prayer, however, makes reference to a previous prayer that Jonah prayed (2:2, 7). While the content of the first prayer is not given, it appears that he prayed for God’s help and that he graciously responded. The psalm of praise (2:2–9) is therefore a response to the salvation Yahweh granted in response to Jonah’s previous prayer. Therefore, chapter 2 suggests that Jonah prayed not once but twice: once in distress and once in thanksgiving.

3:8: The king of Nineveh issues a decree that the Ninevites should fervently pray to God that he might relent from his anger.

4:2–3: Jonah’s prayer to Yahweh, expressing his displeasure of Yahweh’s decision to spare Nineveh.

2. Jonah 2:2; Pss 18:6; 66:14; 81:7; 120:1—“In my distress.”

Jonah 2:3; Ps 42:7—“All your breakers and your waves crossed over me,” which is the longest verbal correlation between Jonah and the Psalter.

Jonah 2:4; Pss 31:22; 139:7—“From before your eyes.”

Jonah 2:7; Pss 107:5; 142:4—“My life ebbed away from me.”

Jonah 2:9; Pss 3:8; 68:19; 98:2–3; 118:14— “Salvation belongs to Yahweh.”

3. These correspondences indicate that Jonah borrowed from several psalms. Because he obviously had no books with him in the fish’s belly, Jonah must have committed these words to memory. Memorizing the liturgy, hymns, and Bible verses is of great value because it serves as a rich treasury from which to draw in times of distress.

Part 2: Other References To Prayer

1. In the four chapters of Jonah there are seven references to prayer. Read the following passages and describe the circumstances and content of the prayers: 1:5: 1:6; 1:14; 2:2–9; 3:8; 4:2–3

2. The language of Jonah’s prayer in 2:2-9 is not original or spontaneous, but is drawn from the Book of Psalms. Read the following passages and compare Jonah’s language to that of the psalms.

Jonah 2:2; Psalms 18:6; 66:14; 81:7; 120:1

Jonah 2:3; Psalm 42:7

Jonah 2:4; Psalms 31:22; 139:7

Jonah 2:7; Psalms 107:5; 142:4

Jonah 2:9; Psalms 3:8; 68:19; 98:2–3; 118:14

3. What do these similarities indicate and how does Jonah’s use of the psalms demonstrate the usefulness of repetition in our own worship?

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least where the most is expected—in CREATIVE

least where the most is expected—in

This is Jonah’s psalm of CREATIVE

This is Jonah’s psalm of thanksgiving that he prayed while in

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thanksgiving that he prayed while in


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Jonah 2:4; Psalms 31:22; 139:7

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Jonah 2:4; Psalms 31:22; 139:7

Jonah 2:7; Psalms 107:5; 142:4

CREATIVE Jonah 2:7; Psalms 107:5; 142:4

CREATIVE Jonah 2:9; Psalms 3:8; 68:19; 98:2–3; 118:14

CREATIVE Jonah 2:9; Psalms 3:8; 68:19; 98:2–3; 118:14

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(1:9; see Rom 1:16), they petition COMMUNICATIONS

(1:9; see Rom 1:16), they petition YahwehCOMMUNICATIONS

Yahweh to spare their life before they COMMUNICATIONS

to spare their life before they throw Jonah overboard. God’s Word COMMUNICATIONS

throw Jonah overboard. God’s Word bears fruit mainly where it is least

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bears fruit mainly where it is least expected and, conversely, produces the

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expected and, conversely, produces the least where the most is expected—in

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least where the most is expected—in

This is Jonah’s psalm of

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This is Jonah’s psalm of thanksgiving that he prayed while in

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thanksgiving that he prayed while in the belly of the great fish. This prayer,

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the belly of the great fish. This prayer, however, makes reference to a previous

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however, makes reference to a previous prayer that Jonah prayed (2:2, 7).

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prayer that Jonah prayed (2:2, 7). While the content of the first prayer

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While the content of the first prayer is not given, it appears that he prayed

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is not given, it appears that he prayed for God’s help and that he graciously

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for God’s help and that he graciously responded. The psalm of praise (2:2–9)

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responded. The psalm of praise (2:2–9) is therefore a response to the salvation

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is therefore a response to the salvation Yahweh granted in response to Jonah’s

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Yahweh granted in response to Jonah’s

Jonah 2:7; Psalms 107:5; 142:4

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Jonah 2:7; Psalms 107:5; 142:4

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Jonah 2:9; Psalms 3:8; 68:19; 98:2–3; 118:14

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Jonah 2:9; Psalms 3:8; 68:19; 98:2–3; 118:14

What do these similarities indicate and how

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What do these similarities indicate and how

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COMMUNICATIONS s use of the psalms demonstrate the

COMMUNICATIONS s use of the psalms demonstrate the

usefulness of repetition in our own worship?

COMMUNICATIONS usefulness of repetition in our own worship?

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is not given, it appears that he prayed SAMPLES

is not given, it appears that he prayed for God’s help and that he graciously SAMPLES

for God’s help and that he graciously responded. The psalm of praise (2:2–9) SAMPLES

responded. The psalm of praise (2:2–9) is therefore a response to the salvation

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is therefore a response to the salvation Yahweh granted in response to Jonah’s

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Yahweh granted in response to Jonah’s previous prayer. Therefore, chapter 2

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previous prayer. Therefore, chapter 2 suggests that Jonah prayed not once

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suggests that Jonah prayed not once but twice: once in distress and once in

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but twice: once in distress and once in

king of Nineveh issues a decree

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king of Nineveh issues a decree that the Ninevites should fervently

SAMPLESthat the Ninevites should fervently pray to God that he might relent from

SAMPLESpray to God that he might relent from

Jonah 2:9; Psalms 3:8; 68:19; 98:2–3; 118:14

SAMPLESJonah 2:9; Psalms 3:8; 68:19; 98:2–3; 118:14

3.

SAMPLES3. What do these similarities indicate and how

SAMPLESWhat do these similarities indicate and how does Jonah’

SAMPLESdoes Jonah’

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SAMPLES s use of the psalms demonstrate the

SAMPLES s use of the psalms demonstrate the usefulness of repetition in our own worship?

SAMPLESusefulness of repetition in our own worship?

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1. Answers will vary.



READ: Have someone read the Closing Prayer or read the prayer in unison.

Part 3: Discussion/Application

1. When have you felt like Jonah—far from God and enmeshed in a situation beyond your control? How then was your life brought “up from the pit”?

2. When you are in a desperate situation, do you have a tendency to pray with hope or is prayer a pessimistic last resort?

3. What Bible texts, liturgy, hymns, or songs have you memorized? Have you ever been in a distressing situation where these words and promises of God brought you comfort?

A Closing Prayer

Loving Father, let our actions serve to praise you in every circumstance of our lives. Make our hearts quiet chambers where your Word turns adversity into praise. Tune our voices to clearly proclaim your amazing grace. As we turn away from worthless idols to your matchless mercy, lift us from death to life, that we may joyfully serve you and glorify your holy name. We pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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memorized? Have you ever been in a distressing CREATIVE

memorized? Have you ever been in a distressing situation where these words and promises of God CREATIVE

situation where these words and promises of God

A Closing Prayer

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A Closing Prayer

Loving Father, let our actions serve to praise you in every

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Loving Father, let our actions serve to praise you in every circumstance of our lives. Make our hearts quiet chambers

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circumstance of our lives. Make our hearts quiet chambers where your Word turns adversity into praise. Tune our

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where your Word turns adversity into praise. Tune our voices to clearly proclaim your amazing grace. As we turn

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voices to clearly proclaim your amazing grace. As we turn away from worthless idols to your matchless mercy, lift

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away from worthless idols to your matchless mercy, lift

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have a tendency to pray with hope or is prayer a COMMUNICATIONS

have a tendency to pray with hope or is prayer a pessimistic last resort?COMMUNICATIONS

pessimistic last resort?

3.COMMUNICATIONS

3. What Bible texts, liturgyCOMMUNICATIONS

What Bible texts, liturgymemorized? Have you ever been in a distressing

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memorized? Have you ever been in a distressing situation where these words and promises of God

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situation where these words and promises of God brought you comfort?

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brought you comfort?

A Closing Prayer

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A Closing Prayer

Loving Father, let our actions serve to praise you in every

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Loving Father, let our actions serve to praise you in every circumstance of our lives. Make our hearts quiet chambers

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circumstance of our lives. Make our hearts quiet chambers where your Word turns adversity into praise. Tune our

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where your Word turns adversity into praise. Tune our voices to clearly proclaim your amazing grace. As we turn

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voices to clearly proclaim your amazing grace. As we turn

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away from worthless idols to your matchless mercy, lift

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away from worthless idols to your matchless mercy, lift us from death to life, that we may joyfully serve you and

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us from death to life, that we may joyfully serve you and

COMMUNICATIONS

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glorify your holy name. We pray through Jesus Christ our

COMMUNICATIONS


SAMPLES

circumstance of our lives. Make our hearts quiet chambers SAMPLES

circumstance of our lives. Make our hearts quiet chambers where your Word turns adversity into praise. Tune our SAMPLES

where your Word turns adversity into praise. Tune our voices to clearly proclaim your amazing grace. As we turn SAMPLES

voices to clearly proclaim your amazing grace. As we turn SAMPLES

away from worthless idols to your matchless mercy, lift SAMPLES

away from worthless idols to your matchless mercy, lift us from death to life, that we may joyfully serve you and

SAMPLES

us from death to life, that we may joyfully serve you and

SAMPLES

SAMPLES


SAMPLES


25

ASSIGN: Assign the reading and the questions for next week.

Assignment for Next Week

• Read Jonah 3:1–4. (Printed on p. 27.)

Ask yourself:1) What does it mean for my life that “the word of

the LORD came to Jonah a second time”?2) Do you think Jonah willingly went to Nineveh?3) What do you think of his sermon? Where is the

Law? Where is the Gospel?

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By Dr. Reed Lessing. Art by Sally Beck. © 2010 by Creative Communications for the Parish, 1564 Fencorp Dr., Fenton, MO 63026. 1-800-325-9414. www.creativecommunica-tions.com. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. (Student Guide order code: JB-S.) JB-L

Jonah for Lent? Seems fishy until we remem-ber that Jesus said, “This generation asks for a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah” (Luke 11:29). These Bible studies for Lent, written by seminary pro-fessor Dr. Reed Lessing, follow the prophet Jonah on his journey of faith and reveal at the same time some very Lenten concepts that guide us on our journey with Jesus on the way to the cross.

In this six-session Bible study each session looks at a particular section of the Book of Jonah and plunges into that Scripture’s meaning with prayers, ice breakers, biblical background questions, and topics for discus-sion and application. The session themes are:

God Is CallingSaved in the StormOur Providing God

Praying in the Belly of the Great FishThe God of the Second Chance

About Face

JONAHThe Sign Of

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Jonah for Lent? Seems fishy until we remem-CREATIVE

Jonah for Lent? Seems fishy until we remem-ber that Jesus said, “This generation asks for

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ber that Jesus said, “This generation asks for a sign, but no sign will be given it except the

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a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah” (Luke 11:29). These Bible

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sign of Jonah” (Luke 11:29). These Bible studies for Lent, written by seminary pro-

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studies for Lent, written by seminary pro-fessor Dr. Reed Lessing, follow the prophet

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fessor Dr. Reed Lessing, follow the prophet Jonah on his journey of faith and reveal at

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Jonah on his journey of faith and reveal at the same time some very Lenten concepts

CREATIVE

the same time some very Lenten concepts that guide us on our journey with Jesus on

CREATIVE

that guide us on our journey with Jesus on

In this six-session Bible study each session

CREATIVE In this six-session Bible study each session looks at a particular section of the Book

CREATIVE looks at a particular section of the Book of Jonah and plunges into that Scripture’s

CREATIVE of Jonah and plunges into that Scripture’s meaning with prayers, ice breakers, biblical

CREATIVE meaning with prayers, ice breakers, biblical

JONAHCREATIVE

JONAHJONAHCREATIVE

JONAHCOMMUNICATIONS

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a sign, but no sign will be given it except the

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a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah” (Luke 11:29). These Bible

COMMUNICATIONS

sign of Jonah” (Luke 11:29). These Bible studies for Lent, written by seminary pro-

COMMUNICATIONS

studies for Lent, written by seminary pro-fessor Dr. Reed Lessing, follow the prophet

COMMUNICATIONS

fessor Dr. Reed Lessing, follow the prophet Jonah on his journey of faith and reveal at

COMMUNICATIONS

Jonah on his journey of faith and reveal at the same time some very Lenten concepts

COMMUNICATIONS

the same time some very Lenten concepts that guide us on our journey with Jesus on

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that guide us on our journey with Jesus on the way to the cross.

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the way to the cross.


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In this six-session Bible study each session looks at a particular section of the Book

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looks at a particular section of the Book of Jonah and plunges into that Scripture’s

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of Jonah and plunges into that Scripture’s meaning with prayers, ice breakers, biblical

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meaning with prayers, ice breakers, biblical

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background questions, and topics for discus-

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background questions, and topics for discus-sion and application. The session themes are:

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sion and application. The session themes are:

Praying in the Belly of the Great Fish

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Praying in the Belly of the Great Fish

SAMPLES

SAMPLES


SAMPLES

In this six-session Bible study each session looks at a particular section of the Book

SAMPLES

looks at a particular section of the Book of Jonah and plunges into that Scripture’s

SAMPLES

of Jonah and plunges into that Scripture’s meaning with prayers, ice breakers, biblical

SAMPLES

meaning with prayers, ice breakers, biblical

SAMPLES

SAMPLES

SAMPLESbackground questions, and topics for discus-

SAMPLESbackground questions, and topics for discus-sion and application. The session themes are:

SAMPLESsion and application. The session themes are:

God Is Calling

SAMPLESGod Is Calling

Saved in the Storm

SAMPLESSaved in the StormOur Providing God

SAMPLESOur Providing GodPraying in the Belly of the Great Fish

SAMPLESPraying in the Belly of the Great FishThe God of the Second Chance

SAMPLESThe God of the Second ChanceAbout Face

SAMPLESAbout Face

Documents

CREATIVE · Part 1: Prayer Motivators • Read Jonah 2:1-10. (Printed below.) 2:1 Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the belly of the fish, 2 saying, “I called to the Lord