How To Solve A Problem | Jonah 1:4-2:1

May 18, 2025 

GRAND PARKWAY BAPTIST CHURCH

Neil McClendon, Lead Pastor

How To Solve A Problem
Jonah 1:4-2:1

1. What is the nature of the problem? v. 5-6
Jeremiah 23:18-22

Three kinds of response to the problem…

a) spiritual- “each cried out to his god”   
1) polytheism- the belief or worship of more than one god.
2) monotheism- the belief that their is only one God. Dt. 6:4
3) henotheism- the belief that there are many gods who are the same 
               but they are just called by different names. 

b) physical- “and they hurled the cargo that was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them.”
c) emotional- “But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and had lain down and was fast asleep.” 


Inappropriate sleep patterns/habits are many things…
a) a sign of depression
b) a form of avoidance
c) subtle form of escape
d) unconscious denial- an unconscious response to a conscious problem. 

2. Who is responsible for the problem? v. 7-16

3. What is God’s response to the problem? v. 17

“God’s grace is not infinite. God is infinite, and God is gracious. We experience the grace of an infinite God, but grace is not infinite. God sets limits to His patience and forbearance. He warns us over and over again that someday the ax will fall and His judgment will be poured out.”  - R.C. Sproul

Mental worship…

1. Are you currently living in disobedience to something the Lord has told you to do?
2. What is the order by which you respond to problems? 
3. Is God repeating anything to you these days?
4. Is there anybody that you refuse to have your mind changed about?
5. How is God’s judgment a sign of His love? 
6. Have you ever had an experience with God’s judgement that turned your heart back towards God?