What is the gospel? This week, we explore why the gospel isn't just any old good news. When the word gospel is connected with the person and work of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, only then does it become good news that draws us into an eternity of worship.

Jonah is truly a reflection of the character of mankind. In chapter 2, he sang God's praises. In chapter 4, he questions God. But God is patient and merciful toward Jonah, just as he is with us.

In this chapter, we see Jonah's faithful preaching of God's wrath, the Ninevites' heartfelt repentance, and the mercy of God that undergirds it all. We cannot preach the good news of grace without first preaching the bad news of judgment. But even the warning of judgment is a product of God's mercy, which leads us to faith, repentance, and ultimately, worship!

As Jonah found himself alive in the belly of the great fish (much to his surprise), he prayed a prayer of deep thanksgiving and gratitude to the God who had saved him from certain destruction. Jonah deserved death, but God preserved his life. Salvation belongs to the Lord!

Jonah's name might mean "silly bird", but he is truly the "son of Amittai", the "son of My faithfulness". Despite Jonah's disobedience, God preserves his life. This week, we see how God chastises those whom he loves, how he faithfully loves us through our sin, and brings us to faith and repentance in Jesus Christ.