The Jonah Series

From Running From God to Running With God

The story of Jonah is much more than a story about a great fish. It is a story about obedience, prayer, mercy, repentance, and the transforming work of God in the heart of His people.

In this four-part series, Pastor James Strickland takes us through the book of Jonah and follows Jonah's journey from running from God, to running to God, to running with God—and finally to the deeper question of what God wanted Jonah to learn about his own heart and God's mercy.

Jonah 1 — Running From God
Jonah resists God's call and attempts to go in the opposite direction. We examine the consequences of disobedience and the truth that we cannot escape God's presence or His purpose.

Jonah 2 — Running To God
In the belly of the great fish, Jonah turns to God in prayer. His prayer reminds us that even when we have fallen far, God's mercy gives us an opportunity to turn back to Him.

Jonah 3 — Running With God
Jonah receives another opportunity to obey. He goes to Nineveh, delivers God's message, and witnesses an extraordinary response. This chapter shows what can happen when we are willing to follow God's direction.

Jonah 4 — The Conclusion
The story ends with Jonah struggling with his attitude toward God's mercy. God uses the final chapter to confront Jonah's heart and teach him about compassion, grace, and the value God places on people.

Together, these four messages challenge us to ask an important question:

Are we running from God, running to God, or truly running with God?

Through Jonah's story, we are reminded that God is merciful, God is patient, God gives second chances, and God's purposes are greater than our own.

Sharon Baptist Church
Building Lives on the Word of God for a Lasting Future.