Courses

Why is there a book of Jonah, and what should it do when you read it or preach it? Jonah is unique among all Biblical books.  Among its distinctions are the conflict it has caused in interpretation and the vastly diverse creativity of sermons preached from it. This course will probe the intentions and purpose of the author of this prophetic composition, his method of accomplishing his goals, and how ministers can further his goals in their preaching. It will examine structure, genre, and setting in order to ascertain how this book intended to teach about God and his mercy.

Knowing

• Become familiar with the text of Jonah, including translation (exegetical) questions.
• Understand Jonah in relation to the scroll of the twelve.
• Appreciate diverse perspectives of literary analysis of Jonah in Jewish and Christian traditions.
• Become familiar with interpretations of Jonah from pre-Christian times to the present.

Being

• Becoming Christ-like in forgiving others because they know not what they do.
• Responding to injustice and wrong without hate and a quest for revenge.
• Practicing love as Christ loved us and gave himself for us (Eph. 5:2).
• Dealing with anger in a mature and responsible manner.

Doing

• Preach and teach Jonah to challenge vengeful attitudes and inspire Christian perspectives.
• Correct false emphases on what is important in the book of Jonah.
• Demonstrate forgiveness with help from examples like those of Sokreaksa Himm.