The phrase "The word of the LORD came to Jonah" marks the beginning of the prophetic narrative found in the Book of Jonah, a text within the Minor Prophets of the Old Testament. This phrase signifies a divine communication and commission from God to the prophet Jonah, son of Amittai. The account is primarily located in Jonah 1:1-2, where the LORD's directive is clearly articulated.

Biblical Context and Content

The Book of Jonah opens with the statement: "The word of the LORD came to Jonah son of Amittai: 'Get up! Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before Me.'" (Jonah 1:1-2). This command from God is both a call to action and a revelation of divine concern for the moral state of Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its idolatry and violence.

Prophetic Commission

Jonah's commission is unique among the prophetic books, as it involves a mission to a foreign nation rather than to Israel or Judah. The directive to "preach against" Nineveh underscores the seriousness of their sin and the impending judgment. The phrase "its wickedness has come up before Me" indicates that the sins of Nineveh have reached a level that demands divine intervention.

Jonah's Response

In contrast to other prophets who often respond with immediate obedience or dialogue with God, Jonah's reaction is one of flight. Jonah 1:3 states, "But Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish." This act of disobedience highlights Jonah's reluctance to carry out God's command, possibly due to fear, prejudice against the Assyrians, or a desire to see them judged rather than forgiven.

Theological Implications

The narrative of Jonah receiving the word of the LORD and his subsequent actions raises significant theological themes. It illustrates the sovereignty of God in choosing His messengers and the universal scope of His concern for all nations. The account also emphasizes human agency and the struggle between divine will and human reluctance.

Divine Mercy and Judgment

The command to Jonah reflects God's dual attributes of justice and mercy. While Nineveh's wickedness warrants judgment, the opportunity for repentance is implicit in the call to preach against the city. This anticipates the broader biblical theme of God's desire for repentance and reconciliation, even for those outside the covenant community of Israel.

Prophetic Tradition

Jonah's experience is part of the larger prophetic tradition in which the "word of the LORD" serves as a catalyst for action and transformation. Prophets are often called to deliver messages that challenge the status quo, call for repentance, and reveal God's purposes. Jonah's initial resistance and eventual compliance underscore the complexity of the prophetic vocation.

Conclusion

The phrase "The word of the LORD came to Jonah" encapsulates the beginning of a profound narrative that explores themes of obedience, divine compassion, and the far-reaching scope of God's redemptive plan. Through Jonah's account, the text invites reflection on the nature of God's call and the human response to divine instruction.