Parable Lost (prodigal) son Luke 15:11-32

How do you feel when others get rewards greater than they deserve?

• Happy

• Indifferent

• Jealous

• Motivated

Who do the three major people in the parable represent (father, older son, younger son).

• The father represents God, the older son represents the Pharisees, and the younger son represents sinners.

• The father represents a king, the older son represents a prince, and the younger son represents a servant.

• The father represents a teacher, the older son represents a student, and the younger son represents a friend.

• The father represents a judge, the older son represents a lawyer, and the younger son represents a defendant.

What share of the estate would the younger son be entitled to? (Deut 21:17) When would he receive this? By asking for his share early, what did the younger son show?

What are the differences and similarities between this parable and the two preceding ones? (All three were told at the same time to the same audience)

What causes us to show resentment when mercy is shown to someone else?

• Jealousy

• Empathy

• Indifference

• Compassion

Who is the vilest person you know or know about? What would you do if that person said he (or she) wants to be forgiven?

How can you guard yourself from feeling resentful when God shows mercy to people you think don’t deserve it?

• By understanding that everyone deserves mercy

• By focusing on your own actions

• By seeking guidance from religious texts

• By talking to a spiritual advisor

Is there a totally undeserving person to whom you can extend God’s love and forgiveness this week? How?

What do the three parables in Luke 15 reveal about God’s love?

• God's love is conditional

• God's love is limited

• God's love is forgiving and seeks the lost

• God's love is indifferent