What does the story of Jonah teach us about Christ?

The story of Jonah is a pivotal typology that points to Christ, entailing profound implications about his death and resurrection. Jesus himself stated that the only sign he would give to a wicked generation is the sign of Jonah, who spent three days and three nights in the belly of a great fish (Matthew 12:40). This parallels Jesus’ own burial and resurrection, where he experienced the depths of separation from God as a sin bearer. Just as Jonah's time in the fish was a precursor to God’s redemption through his eventual obedience, Christ’s time in the grave is the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan for mankind, showcasing His authority over life and death.