In this opening message from our new series through the book of Jonah, Pastor David Baalbergen reminds us that “Salvation belongs to the Lord.” From Jonah’s first steps of disobedience to God’s patient pursuit through the storm, we see that the Lord’s sovereignty is never thwarted—even by a runaway prophet.

When Jonah fled, God pursued.

When Jonah slept, the storm raged.

And when the sailors could do nothing more, God saved.

Through Jonah’s descent and God’s mercy, this passage challenges each of us to stop rowing against the will of God and instead abandon our oars—trusting wholly in the finished work of Christ, our greater and perfect Prophet.

If you’ve ever tried to steer your own life out of the storms caused by sin, this message is a call to surrender. God is sovereign, His grace is greater, and His pursuit of His people never fails.

Join us as we walk through Jonah 1 and discover the God who uses even our disobedience to accomplish His redemptive plan.

🕊️ East Brainerd Baptist Church

A church committed to gospel-centered revitalization and faithful teaching of God’s Word.

📍 Chattanooga, TN

📚 Key Passage: Jonah 1:1–17

🎵 Series Key Verse: Jonah 2:9 — “Salvation belongs to the Lord.”

🙏 If you’ve been stirred by this message and want to know more about following Jesus, reach out to us — we’d love to talk and pray with you.

More to come next week!