Jonah: Confronted by Grace - The Sign of Jonah, Resurrection

Sunday we will continue our study in Jonah by considering Jesus’ reference to him in Matthew 12. In this text the Pharisees and scribes were accusing Jesus of casting out demons with the power of Beelzebul. Jesus accuses them of blasphemy against the Spirit and then calls them a “brood of vipers.” (12:34) The religious leaders then say, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” (12:38) 

Jesus knows that they won’t respond to a sign because he had been performing miracles before them throughout his ministry. He hadn’t done anything in secret. This is where he references Jonah, saying, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.” (12:39)

His reference is specific to Jonah’s time in the great fish, three days and three nights. Jesus draws attention to the difference between the Pharisees and the people of Nineveh. One group repented while another would not. How will you respond? The resurrection of Jesus is a sign of God’s redemption of sinners.

Join us Sunday as we worship our risen Lord.