Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 27:75 (Autumn 2023)
Article: Revival At Nineveh: An Exegesis Of Jonah 3:1–10
Author: Cody H. Hughes

JODT 27:75 (Autumn 2023) p. 147

Revival At Nineveh:
An Exegesis Of Jonah 3:1–10

Cody H. Hughes

* Cody H. Hughes, MBA, M.Div. cand., Missionary, Disciple Makers Multiplied, Director and Instructor, 3D Training Center, Beaumont, Texas

Jonah is one of the twelve Minor Prophets and undoubtedly one of the most well known books of the entire Bible. While many people are aware of the events recorded in Jonah, few have plumbed the depths of this wonderful book for themselves. Most people believe Jonah wrote the book that bears his name (1:1). In Hebrew, the name Jonah means “dove” (יוֹנָ֥ה) even though Jonah’s character in the book leans more towards that of a vulture. In chapter 1, God commissioned Jonah to preach to the city of Nineveh. However, Jonah hated the Assyrians, so he headed in the opposite direction and embarked on a voyage to Tarshish instead. His rebellion establishes the plot for the rest of the book, where the hardheaded prophet of God wrestles with the commission God gave him.

Through this unique book, Jonah teaches the reader what occurs when God’s children are opposed to the Lord’s mission and will in their lives. Even though Jonah eventually preached to Nineveh, it was not because of his desire to minister to or see those individuals saved. Quite the opposite is true! He hated the mission field to which God sent Him (1:1–3; 4:2). There is no record in Scripture that Jonah ever changed his mind regarding the Ninevites.

In this book, Jonah’s sinful character is juxtaposed against God’s amazing character. The striking contrast beautifully accentuates God’s love for Gentiles and God’s sovereignty in accomplishing his purposes. Ultimately, the book of Jonah does not concern the fish, the storm, the sailors, or even Jonah. While these all function as secondary characters in the text, the book showcases God’s remarkable attributes and all concerns Him, just like the rest of Scripture (Luke 24:27). The purpose of this article is to provide an exegetical overview with in-depth analysis of chapter 3; however, prior to exploring chapter 3 in greater detail, the next four paragraphs will summarize each chapter of the book.

JODT 27:75 (Autumn 2023) p. 148

Four-Part Summary Of The Book Of Jonah

In chapter 1, Jonah was commissioned by God to preach to the city of Nineveh which was east of Sama...