Our subject is the nature of sin as set out in this passage. Such a topic is important since man's notion of just what sin is has so altered of late that little. if anything, of human behaviour is counted sin today. God's view has not altered however and that will be seen in the judgement of God at the end of time. Our topic then is: WICKEDNESS IS REBELLION AGAINST GOD That is made plain here. 1. Sin is a defying of God. Nineveh's sin had come up aggressively before God's throne, verse 2. Isaiah 14:12-14. Sin ascends to His throne and would sit upon it! 2. Sin would challenges God's position. It would dethrone God and initiate its regime. Sinful man's ambition centres upon this and it explains the wickedness of this day. 2 Thess 2:3-4. 3. It is a provocation to God. It would flaunt itself before God. Nineveh's sins were about to bring God's judgment upon its head but first -- mercy is offered.