The Prodigal Son: A Father's Love

Introduction

The parable of the prodigal son is really the parable of the prodigal father — because the most extravagant, reckless, grace-filled character in the story is not the wayward son but the father who runs to meet him.

The Younger Son's Journey (vv. 11–16)

The younger son demands his inheritance early — essentially wishing his father dead — and squanders it in dissolute living. He ends up feeding pigs, the lowest possible state for a Jewish man. And there, in the far country, he came to himself.

Coming Home (vv. 17–20)

The son rehearses a speech: I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me one of your hired servants. It is a humble, practical plan. But the father doesn't let him finish it.

The Father Runs (v. 20)

While the son was still a great way off, the father saw him and ran. In the ancient Middle East, a man of dignity did not run. He would pull up his robes and expose his legs — undignified, vulnerable. The father ran anyway. He chose the son's restoration over his own dignity.

The Elder Son (vv. 25–32)

The parable does not end with the celebration — it ends with the elder son, standing outside, angry. He has been faithful, present, obedient — and he feels unrewarded. The father goes out to him too. The grace is offered to both sons. The question is whether the elder son will receive it.