When Grace Makes Us Angry (Jonah 4:1-11; Matthew 5:43-48)

WHEN GRACE MAKES US ANGRY

JONAH 4:1-11

MATTHEW 5:43-48

We need grace just as much as our enemies.

I. ABSURD ANGER (4:1-5)

A. Grace that Angers (4:1-3; cf. Exodus 34:6, Jeremiah 18:8)

B. Stewing in Anger (4:4-5; cf. Genesis 18:22-33, Deuteronomy 16:13-14 )

II. PLENTEOUS PITY (134:3)

A. Experiencing Pity (4:6-9)

B. A Lesson on Pity (4:10-11; cf. Genesis 12:2-3)

C. Christ’s Pity (Matthew 5:43-48)

D. A Table in the Presence of Enemies (Psalm 23)

DISCUSSION STARTERS

1. Monday—Why do you think chapter 4 of Jonah is often omitted in the children’s version of Jonah? Discuss Jonah’s anger. Why is Jonah so angry? Does he have the right to be angry? Is Jonah really angry that the LORD is gracious?

2. Tuesday—How does the LORD respond to Jonah’s anger? Discuss the difference between Jonah and Abraham as they related to wicked cities.

3. Wednesday—What does Jonah do in responding to God’s patience? What is so ironic with Jonah building a booth? What does this say about our own relationship with outsiders?

4. Thursday—How does Jonah react when God provided a plant to cover his head? What lesson does the LORD want Jonah to learn with from the parable of the plant? Discuss what Jonah’s despondency says about his theology?

5. Friday—What can you learn about yourself from your enemies? Why is it good news that God would set a table in the presence of your enemies?