Key Verse: "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him." (Luke 15:20)
Introduction:
The parable of the prodigal son is one of the most beautiful pictures of God’s love and grace. It shows us that no matter how far we’ve strayed, God is always waiting with open arms to welcome us back. It’s a story of repentance, forgiveness, and the overwhelming love of the Father.
Sermon Points:
The Younger Son’s Rebellion (Luke 15:11-16)The younger son asks for his inheritance, essentially rejecting his father and choosing a life of indulgence.
He squanders everything, and when a famine strikes, he is left with nothing, illustrating the emptiness of sin.
The Turning Point: Repentance (Luke 15:17-19)In his desperation, the son comes to his senses and realizes his need to return home.
Repentance is about recognizing our brokenness and returning to God with humility.
The Father’s Love and Forgiveness (Luke 15:20-24)As the son returns, the father runs to meet him, showing that God is always ready to forgive and restore.
The father’s actions symbolize God’s grace and the joy of reconciliation.
The Older Son’s Jealousy (Luke 15:25-32)The older son, who stayed home and obeyed, resents the celebration of his brother’s return.
Jesus challenges us to embrace God’s grace for others, even those we may feel don’t deserve it. The Father reminds the older son that everything he has is already his, and the joy of repentance is something to be celebrated.
Conclusion:
God’s love is unconditional, and His grace is available to all who return to Him in repentance. Let us celebrate the forgiveness that is freely given to us and extend that grace to others.
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