Prodigal Son / Elder Brother

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1. Name / Role

Prodigal Son / Elder Brother

2. Category

Parables / Symbolic Figures

3. Time Period / Biblical Context

This parable is found in the New Testament, within the Gospel of Luke. It is part of a trio of parables in Luke 15 (Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Lost Son) that Jesus tells in response to Pharisees’ criticisms of His association with sinners.

4. Origin / Background

The parable draws from familial and inheritance customs in ancient Jewish society. A younger son demanding his inheritance early and squandering it in a foreign land would have been seen as shameful. The father’s acceptance of such a son and the elder son’s resentment illustrate profound themes of grace, repentance, and self-righteousness.

5. Primary Role / Function

The Prodigal Son represents the sinner who repents, while the Elder Brother represents the self-righteous who resent grace. The Father symbolises God, who lovingly welcomes the repentant but challenges the prideful. Together, the figures function to contrast God’s radical forgiveness with human attitudes of judgment and entitlement.

6. Key Characteristics / Traits

  • Prodigal Son: Rebellious, wasteful, humbled, repentant, restored
  • Elder Brother: Dutiful, obedient, resentful, lacking compassion
  • Father: Gracious, generous, waiting, celebratory, compassionate
  • The sons’ attitudes represent two spiritual postures: one of brokenness, the other of pride

7. Symbolism / Spiritual Significance

This parable symbolises the depth of God’s mercy, the call to repentance, and the invitation to rejoice in grace. The prodigal’s return reflects the heart of the gospel—restoration through repentance. The elder brother reveals how legalism and pride can blind even the outwardly obedient to the joy of redemption. The father’s embrace echoes the extravagant love of God toward all who return to Him.

8. Notable Figures / Examples

  • Prodigal Son – Sinner who rebels but returns in humility
  • Elder Brother – Morally upright but lacks love and grace
  • The Father – Reflects God’s heart: ready to forgive, quick to celebrate restoration
  • Servants – Witnesses to the Father’s joy and generosity

9. Related Bible References

  • Luke 15:11–32 – Full parable text
  • Luke 15:1–2 – Pharisees murmur against Jesus for receiving sinners
  • Isaiah 55:7 – Let the wicked forsake his way and return to the Lord
  • Romans 2:1–5 – Warning against judging others while ignoring one’s own heart
  • Ephesians 2:1–9 – Saved by grace, not by works
  • Jonah 4:1–11 – Jonah, like the elder brother, resents God’s mercy on others

10. Summary / Reflection

The Parable of the Prodigal Son and Elder Brother is one of the most profound portrayals of God’s redemptive love and human response. It speaks not only to those who wander far in sin, but also to those who remain near yet are hardened by pride. The father’s actions model divine forgiveness, while the sons reflect contrasting human reactions to grace. This parable challenges both the rebellious and the religious to examine their hearts. God’s invitation to the feast of grace is extended to all—but only those who come in humility will enter in and share His joy.

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