Sermon 122

📖 Sermon 122 – The Prodigal Son (Part 3)

Date: [no date given]
Text: Luke 15:25–32

Introduction

The final portion of the parable reveals another prodigal — the elder brother. Though outwardly obedient, his heart is far from the Father. Jesus exposes the sin of self-righteousness and reveals the Father’s patient appeal.

I. The Elder Brother’s Reaction

A. He hears music and dancing
The sound of joy troubles a proud heart.

B. He refuses to enter
He will not share the Father’s joy. Bitterness shuts him out of the feast.

C. He complains to the Father
“Lo, these many years do I serve thee…” Self-righteousness counts merits and demands recognition.

II. His Misunderstanding of His Father

A. He sees service as slavery
“Neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment.” A cold obedience, not loving devotion.

B. He views his brother with contempt
“This thy son…” He distances himself; his heart lacks grace.

C. He feels overlooked and unrewarded
Pride blinds him to all he already has.

III. The Father’s Gentle Response

A. “Son, thou art ever with me”
Relationship is the true reward.

B. “All that I have is thine”
He has enjoyed constant privilege, yet resents grace to another.

C. “It was meet that we should make merry”
The Father justifies His joy. Grace rejoices when the lost return.

IV. The Lesson Jesus Teaches

A. The Pharisees are the elder brother
Outwardly righteous, inwardly proud, resentful of grace to sinners.

B. True sonship reflects the Father’s heart
A spirit of mercy, forgiveness, and joy.

C. The parable ends without resolution
Will the elder brother enter the feast? Jesus leaves the question to His hearers.

Conclusion

The Father’s grace is wide enough for both the wandering rebel and the resentful moralist. Let us lay aside pride, share the Father’s joy, and welcome every returning sinner.