Introduction

Timothy Keller steers clear of the title "Prodigal Son" in his brief discussion of the parable in Luke 15. He reminds us that the parable is as much about the older brother as it is about the younger, and as much about the father as the sons.

"And what Jesus says about the older brother is one of the most important messages given to us in the Bible. The parable might be better called the Two Lost Sons."

The word "prodigal" means "recklessly spendthrift." It means to spend until you have nothing left.

"This term is therefore as appropriate for describing the father in the story as (for) his younger son. The father's welcome to the repentant son was literally reckless, because he refused to "reckon" or count his sin against him or demand repayment. This response offended the elder son and most likely the local community."

In this story the father represents the Heavenly Father Jesus knew so well.

"Jesus is showing us the God of Great Expenditure, who is nothing if not prodigal toward us, His children.