Neil McClendon, Lead Pastor

The Motivating Power of God’s Nature
Jonah 1:1-4

Introductory thoughts on the book of Jonah…
a) Jonah is a prophetic narrative
b) Jonah is not an allegory
c) Symbolic use of geography and climate

1. Hearing the Word of the Lord comes with a responsibility, v. 1

2. God sees things as they are and as they will be, v. 2

3. God can be patient in response to evil, v. 2
     Psalm 103:8-14

4. There is no where you can go to get away from God, v. 3
   Psalm 139:1-12

Two things this passage teaches us: 
a) God knows us
b) God knows where we are

5. Disobedience is a downward journey, v. 3

6. God is sovereign over all things and He uses everything over which He is sovereign, v. 4

Mental worship…

1. What is the last thing you would say you heard from the Lord?
2. Can you see things as they are and as they will be?
3. Have you ever run from God and what was the outcome? How did you know you were running? 
4. What about God’s nature motivates your obedience?
5. Is the direction of your life more up or down these days?