From my book Acts. Acts 2:1-13: The Spirit of the Mission 2:1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.
With all due respect, Jonah was not a total flop as a missionary. Quite the opposite, though not due to his own efforts. We are told that Jonah is to go through the entire city of Nineveh, which should take him three days. Crapping out about halfway through, Jonah's proclamation still has tremendous effect - everyone from the King down to the donkeys repents them in dust and ashes. I'd say that's am impressive result for someone who half-assed their way through the job.
Of course, your larger point is still very well taken, I just wanted to stand up a bit for Jonah because his story gives me hope as an imperfect preacher that God can bring to perfection what God sets me to do, if I will only show up as I am and as I can.
And to be clear, this is a source of hope, not a justification for lack of commitment, preparation or prayer.
With all due respect, Jonah was not a total flop as a missionary. Quite the opposite, though not due to his own efforts. We are told that Jonah is to go through the entire city of Nineveh, which should take him three days. Crapping out about halfway through, Jonah's proclamation still has tremendous effect - everyone from the King down to the donkeys repents them in dust and ashes. I'd say that's am impressive result for someone who half-assed their way through the job.
Of course, your larger point is still very well taken, I just wanted to stand up a bit for Jonah because his story gives me hope as an imperfect preacher that God can bring to perfection what God sets me to do, if I will only show up as I am and as I can.
And to be clear, this is a source of hope, not a justification for lack of commitment, preparation or prayer.
Thanks for listening.
God's Peace,
- Dawg
Props to the Jonah apologists! ✌🏾