Topical Bible: Fear of God: Conspicuous Instances of Those Who Feared: Jonah, During the Storm

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The concept of the "Fear of God" is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, often signifying a profound respect, reverence, and awe for the Almighty. This fear is not merely about being afraid but encompasses a deep recognition of God's power, holiness, and authority. One of the most striking instances of this fear is illustrated in the account of Jonah during the storm, as recorded in the Book of Jonah.

Context and Background

Jonah, a prophet of the Lord, was commanded by God to go to the city of Nineveh and preach against its wickedness. However, Jonah chose to flee from the presence of the Lord, boarding a ship bound for Tarshish. This act of disobedience set the stage for a dramatic encounter with the fear of God.

The Storm at Sea

As Jonah attempted to escape, the Lord sent a great storm upon the sea, threatening to break the ship apart. The sailors, experienced men of the sea, were terrified and each cried out to his own god. They threw the ship's cargo into the sea to lighten the load, but the storm continued to rage.

Jonah 1:5-6 states, "The sailors were afraid, and each cried out to his own god. And they threw the ship’s cargo into the sea to lighten the ship’s load. But Jonah had gone down to the lowest part of the vessel, where he lay down and fell into a deep sleep. The captain approached him and said, 'How can you sleep? Get up and call on your god! Maybe this god will consider us, and we will not perish.'"

Jonah's Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty

When the sailors cast lots to determine who was responsible for the calamity, the lot fell on Jonah. Upon questioning, Jonah revealed his identity and his fear of the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land. This revelation struck fear into the hearts of the sailors, as they realized the gravity of Jonah's disobedience.

Jonah 1:9-10 records Jonah's confession: "He answered, 'I am a Hebrew, and I worship the LORD, the God of the heavens, who made the sea and the dry land.' Then the men were seized by a great fear and asked him, 'What have you done?' For the men knew he was fleeing from the presence of the LORD, because he had told them."

The Sailors' Response

The sailors' fear of God was further amplified when Jonah instructed them to throw him into the sea to calm the storm. Reluctantly, they complied, and the sea ceased its raging. This miraculous event led the sailors to offer sacrifices and make vows to the Lord, acknowledging His supreme power and authority.

Jonah 1:15-16 describes their response: "At this, they picked up Jonah and threw him into the sea, and the raging sea grew calm. Then the men feared the LORD greatly, and they offered a sacrifice to the LORD and made vows to Him."

Significance

The account of Jonah during the storm serves as a powerful illustration of the fear of God. It highlights the recognition of God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to control the natural elements. Jonah's acknowledgment of his disobedience and the sailors' subsequent reverence for the Lord underscore the transformative power of fearing God. This fear leads to repentance, worship, and a renewed commitment to the Almighty, demonstrating that even in moments of human failure, God's mercy and authority prevail.

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Jonah 1:9
And he said to them, I am an Hebrew; and I fear the LORD, the God of heaven, which has made the sea and the dry land.
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Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... At last, when every man started back for fear of the armed men ... promise myself much
delight; but now every one of those things also ... God hath denied me repentance ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm