The story of Jonah was used by Christ to move His hearers to admit their sins and change their lives. Jonah was sent by God on a mission to a non-Jewish race. God's mission of mercy is meant for all peoples though Jonah was reluctant to approach the Ninevites. However, his exhortation had remarkable results. The people accepted their position as sinners and expressed their repentance. They recognized that God has a right to be obeyed and that His wrath is redemptive. On the other hand, His forgiveness is extended to all repentant sinners.

To His hearers, Christ recalls the complete submission of the Ninevites who without hesitation accepted responsibility for their sins. Those who listened to Christ should have recognized in Him a preacher of repentance. In fact, He was a Prophet who had come to save His people from their sins. In Him was the sign and revelation of the Father's tenderness towards all who admit their guilt. No figure in history could compare with Christ, yet He is ignored by His listeners and ill-treated by others.