Jonah 1:10
Then were the men exceedingly afraid, and saide vnto him; Why hast thou done this? (for the men knew that he fled from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them.) Jonah 1:10 (KJV)
The book of Jonah tells the story of the prophet Jonah, who receives a divine command from God to go to the city of Nineveh and preach against its wickedness. However, Jonah disobeys and attempts to flee from God’s presence by boarding a ship heading to Tarshish. In the midst of his journey God sends a great storm, causing the sailors on the ship to fear for their lives.
In Jonah 1:10 the sailors are described as “exceedingly afraid” because the storm appears to be a supernatural event sent by God in response to Jonah’s disobedience. Their fear is twofold: fear of the storm’s destructive power and fear of divine judgment. The sailors confront Jonah, asking why he has done this and also inquiring about his occupation and where he intends to go. The verse confirms that the men knew that he fled from the presence of the LORD because he had told them.
Earlier Jonah had revealed his identity as a Hebrew and explained that he was fleeing from the presence of the Lord (Jonah 1:3‑4). After hearing this, the sailors understood that Jonah’s disobedience had brought about the peril they now faced, and their questions reflect a desire to understand the cause of the storm that endangers their lives.
Lessons from this passage include the consequences of disobedience—Jonah’s attempt to escape God’s presence endangered others, illustrating how sin affects more than just oneself. The sailors’ fear demonstrates recognition of God’s power and authority, reminding us to reverence Him and heed His commands. Despite Jonah’s rebellion, God continues to pursue His purpose, using the storm and subsequent events to bring about Jonah’s eventual obedience and to display His sovereignty and mercy. Jonah’s confession underscores the importance of accountability and transparency, highlighting the value of honesty and seeking forgiveness when we fall short.
