Jonah Series

Jonah Series: 5-Week Youth Group Study on Trust in God

The story of Jonah reveals a God who is far more merciful and patient than we imagine. Many students know about the prophet who ran from God and was swallowed by a fish, but few have explored what his story teaches us about God’s character. This four‑week study guides students through each chapter of Jonah to help them unlearn misconceptions and encounter the God who is compassionate toward rebels and enemies.

Series Overview

• Week 1 – Know God for Who He Is (Jonah 1:1-3) – Students learn that our perception of God shapes everything. Jonah ran because he didn’t truly know God, and we often run for the same reason. This week invites them to look beyond their assumptions and get to know the God who is compassionate and just.
• Week 2 – Believe in God (Jonah 1:1-6) – Jonah believed in God’s existence, but his disobedience showed he didn’t believe God. As students compare Jonah with the pagan sailors, they are challenged to trust God with their actions, not just with their words.
• Week 3 – God Wants Your Heart (Jonah 1:17-2:10) – Jonah tried to impress God with a highlight‑reel prayer, but God wasn’t after his performance. He wanted Jonah’s heart. Students discover that God wants their genuine hearts, not their performances.
• Week 4 – God Is Merciful (Jonah 3:1-10) – God shows mercy to both Jonah and the Ninevites, revealing that His anger is always tempered by compassion. Students discover that God loves His enemies and invites us to reflect His mercy toward those we struggle to love.
• Week 5 – God Loves (Jonah 4:1-11) — Despite the anger Jonah felt toward the Ninevites, God relented in His anger because He loves them. Students see that loving others is a result of seeing them through the lens of God’s character.

Why Choose the Jonah Series?

• Discover who God really is – Helps students confront misconceptions about God and see His true character of mercy and justice.
• Relatable and thought‑provoking – Uses a familiar story to teach powerful lessons on trust, repentance and compassion.
• Challenges students to respond – Encourages students to obey God’s call and extend mercy to others.
• Leader friendly – Includes everything you need to facilitate meaningful messages and small‑group discussions.

What’s Included

• Video Messages
• Teaching Guides
• Small Group Questions
• Interactive Discussion Activities
• Graphics