07/06/2026
Today's Sunday school lesson
Jonah and the whale
The story of Jonah and the whale (historically referred to as a "great fish") is found in the Old Testament of the Bible in the Book of Jonah, chapters 1 through 4.
1. The Big Task
A long time ago, a prophet named Jonah heard a special message from God. God told him, "Go to the big city of Nineveh and tell the people there to stop making bad choices." But Jonah did not want to go. He was scared and wanted to run away.
2. The Big Storm
Jonah snuck onto a boat traveling in the opposite direction. He went to the very bottom of the boat and fell fast asleep. Suddenly, God sent a huge, scary storm. The waves crashed, and the boat rocked violently. The sailors were terrified and knew the storm was because Jonah was running away from God.
3. Into the Sea
Jonah told the sailors to throw him into the water to save themselves. As soon as they threw him overboard, the storm stopped completely! But as Jonah sank into the deep, dark water, he thought he was in big trouble.
4. Inside the Fish
Just when Jonah needed it most, God sent a giant fish to swallow him whole. Jonah stayed safely inside the fish for three days and three nights. It was dark, but it gave Jonah plenty of time to think. He prayed, said sorry to God, and promised to do what he was asked.
5. A Second Chance
God heard Jonah’s prayer and made the giant fish gently spit him out onto dry land. God gave Jonah a second chance. This time, Jonah obeyed and went straight to the city of Nineveh to deliver God's message. The people listened, stopped doing bad things, and God lovingly forgave them all.
