The narrative of Jonah, a prophet of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, is a compelling account of divine mercy, human reluctance, and the sovereignty of God. The phrase "The word of the LORD came to Jonah again" is pivotal in the Book of Jonah, highlighting God's persistent call and Jonah's eventual obedience.

Context and Background

Jonah, son of Amittai, is introduced in 2 Kings 14:25 as a prophet during the reign of Jeroboam II. The Book of Jonah, however, provides a more detailed account of his prophetic mission. The initial call of God to Jonah is found in Jonah 1:1-2 : "The word of the LORD came to Jonah son of Amittai, saying, 'Get up! Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before Me.'"

Jonah's initial response is one of disobedience; he flees to Tarshish, away from the presence of the LORD. This act of defiance leads to a series of divine interventions, including a great storm and Jonah's subsequent entrapment in the belly of a great fish for three days and three nights.

The Second Call

After Jonah's deliverance from the fish, the narrative resumes with the phrase, "Then the word of the LORD came to Jonah a second time" (Jonah 3:1). This repetition underscores God's unwavering purpose and His willingness to offer Jonah another opportunity to fulfill his prophetic duty. The command remains unchanged: "Get up! Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message that I give you" (Jonah 3:2).

Significance of the Second Call

1. Divine Patience and Mercy: The second call to Jonah is a testament to God's patience and mercy, not only towards the people of Nineveh but also towards Jonah himself. Despite Jonah's initial rebellion, God does not abandon His prophet but instead reinstates him to his mission.

2. Human Agency and Responsibility: Jonah's account illustrates the tension between divine sovereignty and human agency. While God orchestrates events to bring Jonah to Nineveh, Jonah's compliance is essential for the fulfillment of God's plan. This highlights the responsibility of God's servants to heed His call, regardless of personal reluctance or prejudice.

3. The Universality of God's Message: The command to preach to Nineveh, a Gentile city and a symbol of Israel's enemies, reveals the universal scope of God's concern. It foreshadows the New Testament revelation that God's salvation extends beyond Israel to all nations.

4. Repentance and Redemption: Jonah's eventual obedience leads to the repentance of Nineveh, demonstrating the power of God's word to transform even the most wicked of cities. This serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for redemption when individuals and communities respond to God's call.

Theological Implications

The narrative of Jonah, particularly the second call, invites reflection on the nature of prophecy, the character of God, and the mission of His people. It challenges believers to consider their own responsiveness to God's call and the extent of their compassion towards those outside their immediate community. The account of Jonah is a profound reminder of God's relentless pursuit of both His wayward prophet and a repentant city, underscoring His desire that none should perish but that all should come to repentance (cf. 2 Peter 3:9).

In summary, the phrase "The word of the LORD came to Jonah again" encapsulates a moment of divine grace and human opportunity, serving as a pivotal turning point in the narrative and a profound lesson for all who seek to follow God's will.