“The Return of the Prodigal Son” * Rembrandt * c. 1669

My favorite book in the Bible is the Psalms. But, my favorite chapter is Luke 15. In that chapter we have what we know as the parable of the “Prodigal Son.” (Jesus simply introduces it by saying, “There was a man who had two sons.”) It is my favorite of all biblical parables. I guess because every time I read it, I’m feel as though I’m reading about myself. I can rarely read through it without getting emotional.

So many lessons here. Let’s look at just one:

“But while [the wayward son] was still a long way off [and returning home to ask his father’s forgiveness], his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” (vs. 20)

Commenting on this verse, John MacArthur writes, “Clearly, the Father had been waiting and looking for his son’s return. The Father’s eagerness and joy at his son’s return is unmistakable. This is the magnificent attribute of God that sets Him apart from all the false gods invented by man and demons. He is not indifferent or hostile, but a Savior by nature.”

A.W. Tozer said,

“God desires to reveal to us that His capacity to forgive is bigger than our capacity to sin.”

Paul, who described himself as a “wretch”, wrote, “…but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.”

Years ago, Philips, Craig & Dean sang a song titled, He’ll Do Whatever It Takes.  The chorus is below.  The link to the entire song is below the printed chorus.

He’ll do whatever, whatever it takes
His grace reaches lower than your worst mistakes
And His love will run farther
Than you can run away, my friend
He’ll do whatever, whatever it takes
He’ll do whatever it takes

He. Loves. You. So much.

Soli Deo Gloria, Nick