Bible moment
The Bible moment
Jonah 1:1–3 says that the LORD told Jonah to go to Nineveh and cry out against its wickedness. Instead, Jonah went to Joppa and boarded a ship bound for Tarshish. This scene shows Jonah beginning to flee from the LORD’s presence and choosing not to obey God’s command. The account does not explain the route with a modern map or identify why Jonah chose Tarshish. Later in the chapter, the LORD sends a great wind and severe storm over the sea. Jonah’s choice begins a difficult part of the story, but it is not the end. God remains active and continues to deal with Jonah. The scene should help children understand that God’s instructions matter, while also leaving room for the rest of Jonah’s story, including prayer, repentance, mercy, and God’s compassion.
Look closely
What children can notice
Jonah walks onto a ship at Joppa, beginning his journey toward Tarshish instead of going to Nineveh. The harbor, ship, and direction of travel make his choice visually understandable.
Talk together
Talk about it
- Where was Jonah supposed to go?
- What choice did Jonah make instead?
For families, church, and class
Use this page
Use this page before teaching the storm in Jonah 1:4–16. Invite children to notice the harbor, ship, and Tarshish sign, then retell Jonah’s choice in their own words. For discussion, connect the scene to honest conversations about obeying God when a task feels hard. Avoid adding a modern map or details not given in the passage.
Source note
From this passage
Jonah 1:3 · Jonah
Jonah walks onto a ship at Joppa, beginning his journey toward Tarshish instead of going to Nineveh. The harbor, ship, and direction of travel make his choice visually understandable.
