Sermon Notes – June 8, 2025

Points:

Why do we make excuses?

• Usually because we don’t want to do something
• The excuse may be legitimate or it may be a lie

Who is Jonah and why did God call and assign him?

• Jonah was a Hebrew
  • Hebrews were at war with the Ninevites
• God called Jonah to prophesy to a people he had no relationship with and who his people despised?
  • Why would God choose a Hebrew to speak to the Ninevites?
• Jonah decided that he was going to disobey the call of God
• We all make excuses (both believers and unbelievers) particularly when it comes to the call of God on our lives

Reasons we should stop making excuses:

• You did not call yourself – God called you! (Jonah 1:1)
  • You are not in control of your future and your destiny – God is!
• Your lack of response can affect the lives of others. (Jonah 1:15)
  • The reason the lives of the persons on the boat were in danger is because of Jonah’s disobedience to the call of God
• You may experience consequences in an unfavourable way (Jonah 1:17)
  • God provided a fish to swallow Jonah instead of allowing him to kill himself and avoid executing the assignment.
  • You cannot outrun God’s call on your life.
  • If God wants to get your attention He can and will.
• The assignment has nothing to do with you, but with souls (Jonah 3:1-2)
  • You are called to God and to serve others. Your calling is not FOR you
  • God was determined to use Jonah!

• Reflection points:
  • Have you been making excuses for selfish reasons?
  • If God is calling you – stop making excuses!
    
• Supporting Texts:
  • Jonah 4:11