The sermon begins with a reading from Jonah chapter 1, where the story of Jonah fleeing from God's command and the resulting consequences are recounted. The speaker expresses initial hesitation about delivering this message due to the celebratory nature of the evening but feels compelled by the Holy Spirit to proceed.

The central theme of the sermon is "Backsliding Feels Like Hell." The speaker explains how the term "hell" has been desensitized in modern language, often used as a curse word, which diminishes its gravity. Hell is described biblically as a place of torment, darkness, and despair, underscoring the importance of understanding its reality.

Jonah's story is used as a metaphor for backsliding. Despite being a powerful preacher and seasoned saint, Jonah chooses to flee from God's presence, leading to severe consequences. The course of backsliding starts with leaving the presence of God, losing concern for souls, and culminates in a lazy prayer life. The speaker emphasizes that backsliding is a gradual process, often unnoticed by others, but detrimental to one's spiritual health.

The sermon highlights God's compassion and the cure for backsliding. Despite Jonah's disobedience, God prepares a great fish to preserve, not punish, him. This act of compassion redirects Jonah back to God's will. The cure for backsliding is repentant prayer and a refocused purpose. Jonah's prayer in the fish's belly, where he acknowledges his affliction and God's mercy, exemplifies this.

The speaker urges listeners to avoid the path of Jonah's initial disobedience and to embrace repentance and a renewed commitment to God's will. The message concludes with a reminder of God's readiness to offer second chances and His continuous forgiveness.

The sermon ends with a call to action, encouraging the congregation to introspect and ensure they are in God's presence. A hymn, "Come Thou Fount," is sung to reinforce the theme of God's unending mercy and the joy of returning to Him.

In summary, the sermon on Jonah 1 uses the prophet's experience to illustrate the dangers of backsliding, the importance of staying in God's presence, and the boundless compassion and forgiveness God offers to those who repent.