GROUP GUIDE
Leading a group through these questions? Here’s a simple guide for 1.5-2 hour GROUP meeting.
Welcome and Opening Prayer. (5 minutes)
Read the passage aloud. (5 minutes)
Guide the group through the questions. (30-60 minutes)
Take time to share prayer requests and pray for each other. (15-30 minutes)
TEACHING RECAP
Summary: Have you ever felt like you’re avoiding something God is asking you to do? The story of Jonah isn’t just about a storm or a fish—it’s about what happens when we run, why we run, and how God responds when we do. What if the tension in your life isn’t random… but connected to something deeper? And what if God isn’t trying to punish you—but pursue you?
Main Points:
God reveals himself to each of us.
We resist him because we don’t trust him.
Our disobedience brings storms we can’t control.
God meets us with mercy and provides a way through.
On-Ramps:
Where am I resisting what I know God is asking?
Who am I avoiding that God wants me to connect with?
What would one step of surrender look like this week?
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
Scripture testifies that God is not distant but reveals himself to each of us. Read Deuteronomy 4:5-7, Psalm 146:18, and Acts 17:24-27. How does Jonah’s experience in Jonah 1 reinforce that truth?
How do the sailors respond to the storm compared to Jonah? Have you ever had an experience of those who don’t follow Jesus actually prompting you to turn more toward him? What did was that like?
Jonah resists going to people he doesn’t like. Where do we see similar attitudes today in our world toward certain groups or communities? Where have you experience this even among believers?
Is there an area in your life where you sense God calling you, but you’re tempted to run the other way? What’s behind that hesitation? If you’re willing, share this with your group.
Who in your life might you label as a “Ninevite” (a type of person you find difficult to love or reach)? Why are they in that category for you?Is God saying anything to you about that person(s)?
How do you want to respond to this passage in your daily life?
PRAYER
How can we pray for you as a group?
Next week: Jonah 2
