Have you ever tried to run away from something you didn’t want to do? Maybe it was a responsibility, a tough decision, or something God was calling you to do. Jonah did exactly that—he ran from God, and things didn’t go well for him.
Jonah’s story teaches us about obedience, second chances, and God’s mercy. No matter how far we run, God still calls us back to Him.
1. Bible Reading: Jonah 1:1-4
“The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: ‘Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.’ But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord. Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up.”
Explanation For Teenagers
Jonah ran because he didn’t want to do what God was asking him to do. He thought he could escape God’s plan.
God sent a storm to get Jonah’s attention. Sometimes, difficulties in our lives help bring us back to where we need to be.
Running from God doesn’t lead to peace—it often leads to more trouble.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Have you ever ignored or avoided something you knew God was calling you to do? What happened?
- Why do you think Jonah didn’t want to go to Nineveh?
- What can we learn from Jonah about listening to God?
2. Bible Reading: Jonah 1:15-17
“Then they took Jonah and threw him overboard, and the raging sea grew calm. At this the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him. Now the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.”
Explanation For Teenagers
Jonah’s disobedience didn’t just affect him—it put the sailors in danger too. Our choices impact others.
God sent the big fish, not to punish Jonah, but to save him and give him a second chance.
Sometimes, God allows us to go through difficulties to bring us back to where we need to be.
Youth Group Discussion Questions
- Have you ever faced a situation where ignoring God’s direction made things harder?
- Why do you think God gave Jonah a second chance instead of just choosing someone else?
- How does this story show God’s mercy?
Youth Group Game: “Run from Tarshish”
What You’ll Need:
- A large open space
- Cones or markers for start and finish lines
- Blindfolds (optional for added challenge)
How to Play:
- Set up two sides of the playing field—one as “Nineveh” and one as “Tarshish.”
- Have students start running toward “Tarshish” when a leader yells “Go!”
- At random, yell “Storm!”—when they hear it, they must stop and turn toward “Nineveh.”
- First person to Nineveh wins! Use this as an illustration of how Jonah had to stop running from God.
Debrief
- How did it feel to be forced to change direction suddenly?
- What does this game teach us about obeying God instead of running away?
- What are some ways we can make sure we listen to God the first time?
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your patience and mercy. Even when we try to run from You, You never give up on us. Help us to obey You, even when it’s hard. Teach us to trust that Your plans are better than our own. Thank You for second chances and Your constant love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.