New Beginnings Baptist Church

April 27th, 2025 | Running From His Presence | Jonah 1In this powerful kickoff to our series in Jonah, Pastor Matt Darby takes us beyond the well-known fish story to the heart of rebellion—and the even deeper heart of grace. Jonah knew exactly what God wanted, yet he ran. Not from danger, but from mercy. In Jonah 1, we see the downward spiral of spiritual rebellion: running from God’s presence, dragging others into our storms, falling into spiritual slumber, and growing numb to conviction. But more than that, we see a God who refuses to give up. God pursues, disciplines, and rescues—not out of anger, but out of relentless love. Whether you’re drifting, disobeying, or simply spiritually asleep, this message is a call to repent, return, and remember: you can run from God's assignment, but you can't outrun His grace.Reflection Questions:Is your rebellion distancing you from God's presence?Could the storm in your life be God's grace, not punishment?Have you confused God's discipline with His r