The last of these parables concerns two sons, one of whom was prodigal (wasteful) and lost all his inheritance by dissolute living. Nevertheless he felt sure he could return to his father who would receive him, and his expectations were greatly exceeded for his father welcomed him joyfully and poured out his love on him saying: “This my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found”.v.24Luke 15:24XWaiting for response This prodigal son represents the “publicans and sinners” who responded to the teaching of Jesus, repented of their past ways, and returned to God. The elder son, however, was displeased at the welcome given to his brother because he himself had never received such treatment although he served his father steadfastly. Jesus was not here teaching that these qualities are not appreciated by God but he was highlighting the attitude of the Pharisees who considered themselves “righteous” and were unable to welcome the change in “sinners” brought about by his teaching. They should have rejoiced, as the father in the parable said: “It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found”.v.32Luke 15:32XWaiting for response
Jesus came to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel” Matthew 15:24Matthew 15:24XWaiting for response but this class of men and women was despised by the religious leaders of the day and labelled “publicans and sinners”. Luke 15:1-3Luke 15:1-3XWaiting for response He therefore spoke a number of parables to show how they should have rejoiced when these people turned from their sinful ways into paths of righteousness - “they had been lost, but now they are found, therefore rejoice with me”. Luke 15:6,9Luke 15:6,9XWaiting for response In such circumstances, Jesus informs us: “there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth” Luke 15:10Luke 15:10XWaiting for response