In Old Testament times, prophets generally transmitted the divine message directly. God’s servants were instructed to confront erring persons, whether kings or common citizens, the high priest or a member of the congregation. On occasion, the correction encompassed all of God’s people, or at least a majority who were on the road toward apostasy. VOTS 67.1
On other occasions, the recipient of God’s message was a pagan nation or an impenitent city. The message to Nineveh, transmitted by the wandering and elusive prophet Jonah, is a good illustration of the mercy of God toward sinners. Jonah criss-crossed the entire city on foot to proclaim a warning message that, hearkened to and accepted by its inhabitants, saved the city from sure destruction. VOTS 68.1