JONAH: The Unlikely Prophet

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The prophets were God’s spokespersons in ancient times. That was their purpose, the reason they were called to such a privilege. Wherever God sent them to deliver His message, it was expected that they would go.

But Jonah was different. He ran away from God.

There is so much in the story of Jonah that is worth studying and reflecting on. Often, the only thing people notice is that he was swallowed by a fish. Recent scholars agree that the book of Jonah is written as a parody or satire. This does not mean the story is fictional—for we have good reasons to believe it is not—but rather, that it is told in an exaggerated way. The author recounted Jonah’s attempt to flee from God in a humorous style. Jonah stands as a clear example of someone we should not follow.

Even in the opening scene when a storm strikes the ship (Jonah 1:1–16), the actions of the pagan sailors appear far more remarkable than Jonah’s! They were the ones who told the prophet to call on his God (v. 6). They sought divine guidance by casting lots (v. 7). They even rebuked the man of God for running away from Him (v. 10). When Jonah told them to throw him overboard to calm the storm, they didn’t agree immediately, because they were concerned for his life (v. 13). They even felt guilty for doing it (v. 14). And at the end, they recognized the Lord and offered sacrifices to Him (v. 16). In this scene, the sailors looked more like true worshipers of God than Jonah himself—who claimed to be a worshiper (v. 9)! What a shame.

The story of Jonah reminds us that sometimes unbelievers act more ethically than those who claim to be believers but fail to live accordingly. It’s shameful. Christ told us that we should let our good works shine so that others may glorify our Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16). Our actions as children of God affect how the people around us respond to Him. Paul also urged us to carefully watch our life and doctrine (1 Tim. 4:16).

There is a “Jonah” in all of us. At times, we too run away and disobey. Sometimes, unbelievers act more rightly than we do. We choose our own path and end up facing storms of our own making. But the good news is that God’s grace is always ready to meet us when we repent. He is faithful and just to forgive us (1 John 1:9). Stay Curious.

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