To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:
Have your group read all of Jonah 2 and then discuss the following questions.
- What is the significance of the fact that Jonah prayed from inside the huge fish?
Point out that Jonah 2:1-9 represents the prayer of thanksgiving that Jonah composed after he was delivered from drowning in the Mediterranean Sea.
- How did Jonah recall and describe his situation after the sailors threw him overboard?
- What did Jonah do in response? Identify the phrases that signify that response.
Verse 2: “In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me. From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help.”
Verse 7: “When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to you.”
- What did God do in response? Identify the phrases that signify that response.
Verse 2: “. . . he answered me. . . . you listened to my cry.”
Verse 6: “But you, Lord my God, brought my life up from the pit.”
- What lessons did Jonah learn through this ordeal?
- How does verse 8 show that Jonah still has the heart of a prophet?
- Although Jonah didn’t drown, how safe and secure would you say he is now?
- Despite his current dilemma, identify the phrases that demonstrate Jonah’s confidence and assurance.
Verse 4: “I have been banished from your sight; yet I will look again toward your holy temple.”
Verse 9: “But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the Lord.’”
- Why did the fish vomit Jonah onto dry land?
To encourage personal application:
Consider dividing into groups of three or four persons for this time of sharing and prayer.
- When have you been in a situation like Jonah’s—in deep distress amid circumstances in which you felt helpless?
- What were your prayers like?
- What should our prayers be like when we face seemingly hopeless circumstances?
- What challenge are you facing now in which you need to call to the Lord—with hope?
Take turns doing that, and then lift each other up in prayer.