Episode 4509

Broadcast Date: July 20, 2025
Scripture: Jonah 1–4

Message Summary: I’m sure you know the running joke about fishermen exaggerating the size of their catch. But in 1959, Alfred Dean didn’t need to exaggerate when he caught a 2,664-pound great white shark in Australia, the largest fish ever caught in history. The Bible tells us about an even more unbelievable story, but in reverse—the story of a fish that caught a man. Jonah’s encounter with the great fish would make worldwide news today, but here’s what might surprise you: The fish story isn’t really the point. The book of Jonah is actually the missionary book of the Old Testament, revealing that God has a missionary heart and every Christian is called to be on mission. I like how John Stott said, “We profess to believe in God? He’s a missionary God. We’re committed to Christ? He’s a missionary Christ.” The truth that applies to us today is simple: Every Christian has a mission to perform, a message to proclaim, a ministry to promote, and a Master to praise.

This sermon transcript is from a sermon preached by Dr. James Merritt on an episode of Touching Lives. This product will be delivered electronically as a downloadable PDF file via email using the email provided at the time of purchase.

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