Going to Extremes

Going to Extremes

Speaker: Pastor Lee Cummings
Date: September 7, 2025

We’re launching our new series, Coming Attractions! Pastor Lee Cummings unpacks the story of Jonah, challenging us to examine our hearts toward the unreached. Are we running from God’s call—or stepping into it with obedience?

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:

Day 1: God's Heart for the Lost

Reading: Luke 15:1–10

Devotional: Jesus' parables of the lost sheep and lost coin reveal God's relentless pursuit of those far from Him. Like Jonah, we often struggle to share God's heart for the "Ninevites" in our lives—those we deem unworthy or beyond reach. Yet God's love knows no bounds. Reflect on your own journey: How has God pursued you? Are there people in your life you've written off as too far gone? Ask God to align your heart with His, developing compassion for those who don't yet know Him.

Day 2: Obedience in the Face of Fear

Reading: Jonah 1:1–17

Devotional: Jonah's initial response to God's call was to run. Fear, prejudice, and self-preservation led him to flee "from the presence of the Lord." We too face moments where obedience seems daunting. What areas of your life are you holding back from God? What "Ninevehs" is He calling you towards that make you uncomfortable? Remember, God's presence goes with us when we step out in faith. Pray for courage to say "yes" to God's mission, even when it challenges your comfort zone.

Day 3: God's Extreme Measures of Grace

Reading: Romans 5:6–11

Devotional: The lengths God went to redirect Jonah – the storm, the lot-casting, the great fish—pale in comparison to the extreme measure of sending His Son to die for us. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. This radical love should transform how we view others and ourselves. Meditate on the cost of your salvation. How does God's extravagant grace compel you to extend grace to others, even those you might consider enemies?

Day 4: The Power of Second Chances

Reading: Jonah 3:1–10

Devotional: After Jonah's rebellion, God didn't give up on him or on Nineveh. He offered a fresh start, a second chance at obedience and repentance. Our God is a God of new beginnings. No matter how far we've run or how badly we've failed, His mercy is new every morning. Is there an area of your life where you need to embrace God's forgiveness and start anew? How can you extend that same grace of second chances to others in your life?

Day 5: Moving from Comfort to Compassion

Reading: Matthew 9:35–38

Devotional: Jesus looked at the crowds and had compassion. He saw their lostness, their pain, their need for a Savior. Too often, like Jonah, we retreat into our comfortable "ships," indifferent to the spiritual needs around us. Ask God to open your eyes to see your neighborhood, workplace, or school as He sees it. Pray for a heart that breaks for what breaks God's heart. What is one practical step you can take this week to move from comfort to compassion in reaching out to those who don't know Jesus?