Jonah’s Commission (3:1-4) Jonah was commissioned by the God of second chances (cf. Jer. 18:3-4) Jonah was commissioned to: “Arise and go” (cf. Acts 8:26-30; Matt. 28:19-20) “Preach the message that I tell you” (cf. Ezek. 3:26-27; 2 Tim. 4:2 + 3:16-17) Warn (cf. 1:2) of the consequences of sin with a direct message (cf. Heb. 10:26-31; 2 Tim. 4:2b; 2 Thess. 1:8-9)

Nineveh’s Conversion (3:5-9) It started with the people (3:5) They “believed God,” believing the message Jonah preached They repented, proclaiming a fast & putting on sackcloth (Mt. 12:41) They obeyed God, turning away from their evil (3:8) Never underestimate the power of God’s word (cf. Heb. 4:12)! It spread to the palace (3:6-8) Even the king himself responded by repenting (3:6) The king influenced the entire city to repent (3:7-8) Proper repentance involves (3:8): Discerning the serious nature of sin Demonstrating sorrow for sin and deep humility Departing from the evil of sin It sought for preservation (3:9) Their repentance sought to appease the anger of God (cf. Psa. 7:11) Their repentance sought to avoid the danger of judgment (cf. 2 Pe. 3:9)

God’s Compassion (3:10) God witnessed the sincerity of their repentance He had seen their wickedness (1:2) Now He sees their new works (3:10; cf. Prov. 15:3) God withdrew the severity of their punishment God rejoices over repentance (Luke 15:10) God rewards with His mercy those who truly repent (cf. 2:8; 4:2; Jer. 18:5-10; Psa. 136; Tit. 3:5)

God Still Wants All to Be Saved By believing Jesus is God’s Son – Acts 16:31 By repenting of sin and turning to God – Acts 17:30 By confessing your faith in Jesus – Matthew 10:32 By being immersed into Christ – Galatians 3:27 God will forgive all of your sins – Acts 22:16 God will add you to His church – Acts 2:47 God will register you in heaven – Hebrews 12:23 By living faithfully to Him – 1 Corinthians 15:58