The Message of Jonah

The book of Jonah is likely the best known of the minor prophets. It is often remembered for its oddity: a runaway prophet swallowed by a whale! But there must be more to the book than that.

In Jonah we find charted the course not just of a discontented prophet but of Israel's attitude toward its most despised neighbor in the Mediterranean world. Jonah refuses God's call because he knows God will respond in mercy and grace should the Assyrians repent. Jonah will have no part of it--until he is compelled. And even then he pities himself.

The irony of this prophet's story is amusing, but it also reaches out and touches us where we are today. Rosemary Nixon explores the depths of the book and helps us make connections with our view of God and his world.

Part of the beloved Bible Speaks Today series, The Message of Jonah offers an insightful, readable exposition of the biblical text and thought-provoking discussion of how its meaning relates to contemporary life. Used by students and teachers around the world, the Bible Speaks Today commentaries are ideal for those studying or preaching the Bible and anyone who wants to delve deeper into the text. This revised edition features lightly updated language, current Scripture quotations, and a new interior design.

Rosemary Nixon was pastor to the Community of Durham Cathedral and formerly vicar of All Saints' Church in Cleadon, Sunderland. She also served as principal of the Theological Institute of the Scottish Episcopal Church, Edinburgh, director of the urban studies unit in the parish of Gatehead, and tutor in Old Testament studies at Cranmer Hall, Durham.