Prodigal son
Teachers
Lesson Summary
The class concluded the series on the Prodigal Son by linking Luke 15’s narrative with parallel parables in Matthew 21. The teacher highlighted how Jesus used the story of the two sons (Matt 21:28‑31) and the wicked tenants (Matt 21:38‑45) to rebuke the Pharisees, drawing a clear line to the older brother’s self‑righteous anger in Luke 15:26‑30. He argued that the core message of both parables is the urgent call to recognize one’s sinful state, repent, and celebrate restoration rather than cling to entitlement or judgment. Throughout the discussion, the teacher emphasized that the older brother’s resentment mirrors the attitude of religious leaders who claim superiority while refusing to join the joy of God’s forgiveness. He warned against “celebrating sin” and urged believers to focus on repentance and the father’s mercy. The session closed with practical applications for daily church life, encouraging members to examine their own hearts for hidden pride and to join in genuine rejoicing when others return to the faith.
Key Scriptures
He summoned the older brother... you slaughtered the fattened calf for him.
Which of the two did his father's will? They said the first, because the other one said he would and didn't go.
They said to each other, this is their heir... they feared the crowds because the people regarded him as a prophet.