The Dangers of Disobedience
Jonah 1:1-17
Not long after Elijah and Elisha, another prophet came from the Northern kingdom of Israel during the rule of Jeroboam II. He lived near Nazareth. God told him to go to Nineveh (modern day Iraq), an Assyrian, foreign, Gentile city. Jonah in disobedience heads toward Tarshish, clear on the other side of the Mediterranean Sea. There is a grave danger in knowing God’s will, yet running from and disobeying His call! Even in hostility and discomfort, we’ll find our greatest joy in serving Christ! It’s rigged that way! Missionaries in very hostile places will testify to the peace they have when they’ve chosen the cross over comfort!
The Danger of Despising God’s Creation vv.1-3
v.1 Son of Amittai means “son of my faithfulness”. Isn’t that God? Even when we’re not faithful, He still is!
v.2 Nineveh is a city on the east bank of the Tigris River about 220 miles north of present-day Baghdad. Its more than 500 miles Northest of Israel. The people of Nineveh were very evil and were subject to great disaster if they did not repent.
Luke 6:27-28 “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.”
Determine to do the Great Commandment and the Great Commission
The Danger of Departing from Duty vv.4-6
Diligently do God’s work
Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
The Danger of Disregarding Others vv.7-16
Devote your life to serving others
Romans 12:10 “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”
The Danger of Discounting Discipline v.17
Declare God’s discipline as a second chance, a lesson learned
Hebrews 12:6-7 “For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline?”
What will drive us to obedience? The only thing that will drive the rest of our days is being in awe of the glory of God! Asking the question, “Why would He (God) save a sinner like me?” That question alone thrust me to the mission field! Thrust me to the work-place for His glory! Thrust me to school for His glory! Thrust me to our neighbor’s house for His glory!