Roots & Relevance

Jonah's Turning Point - Understanding the Significance of the Fish

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we dive deeper into the story of Jonah as he encounters the mysterious great fish in Chapter 2. Was Jonah’s time in the belly of the fish an act of punishment or a divine rescue mission? We explore the poetic language, the significance of the fish’s gender, and the deeper theological implications of Jonah’s descent into Sheol. Join us as we unravel the layers of this ancient narrative and discuss how God’s sovereignty, mercy, and the concept of spiritual death play out in Jonah’s journey and what it means for us today.
 
Download the Episode Study Guide

Facing the Storm: The Fear That Drives Us

In this thought-provoking episode of Roots and Relevance, we dive into the heart of Jonah's journey as we explore the concept of fear and how it shapes the narrative. As the storm rages and Jonah faces the consequences of his flight from God, we examine the different types of fear exhibited by Jonah and the sailors and how these fears reveal deeper truths about our own responses to divine authority. Join us as we unpack the complexity of fear in the context of Jonah's story and its relevance to our modern lives.
To learn more, visit the Roots and Relevance website

The Storm Within: Jonah, Chaos, and God's Pursuit

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we explore the chaotic waters of the Book of Jonah, delving into the ancient Near Eastern cosmology that shaped the narrative. Join us as we connect the themes of chaos, order, and God's relentless pursuit of Jonah, and consider the implications for the Church's role in today's world of disorder and confusion. This conversation challenges us to rethink our understanding of chaos, both in the biblical narrative and our modern culture.
To learn more, visit the Roots and Relevance website

Between Judgement and Grace: Jonah's Struggle With God's Call

In this episode of Roots and Relevance, we delve deeper into the fascinating story of Jonah, exploring the nuances of his role as a prophet versus an evangelist. Join us as we unpack the historical context of Jonah's time, discuss the brutal nature of the Assyrian empire, and reflect on how Jonah's reluctance to obey God reveals profound truths about our own struggles with loving our enemies. Prepare for a thought-provoking discussion that challenges our modern perspectives on grace, mercy, and the call to engage with those we might least expect.
To learn more, visit the Roots and Relevance website

Jonah: Prophet or Evangelist?

In this introductory episode of Roots and Relevance, we embark on a journey through the Book of Jonah, challenging preconceived notions and diving deep into the complexities of this often misunderstood story. Is Jonah simply a tale about a prophet and a big fish, or does it carry profound insights into God's character, compassion, and our response to divine revelation? Join us as we explore whether Jonah was a prophet or an evangelist, discuss the broader themes of repentance and appeasement, and consider what Jonah's story teaches us about how we view and treat "the other" in our own lives.
 
To learn more, visit the Roots and Relevance website