The Parable of the Loving FatherNäide

An angry brother

“Now his older son… was angry and refused to go in.” (Luke 15:28)

So far we have only read about the youngest son. Now the focus shifts to the oldest son. As soon as he gets home, he notices there is a party going on. He is curious to know the reason. But when he hears that his brother has come home, he gets angry. He does not agree with his father in celebrating this event so lavishly. He does not seem at all happy that his brother is back safe and sound. He has no intention of greeting him and joining in the festivities. He would rather stay outside.

With this attitude, the eldest son closely resembles the Pharisees and Scribes to whom Jesus told this parable. They saw how sinners “were all drawing near to hear Him.” One would think: how wonderful that these people too were interested in Jesus' message! But no, the Pharisees and Scribes thought otherwise. “They grumbled,” Luke writes. They considered themselves exemplary, religious men. Sinners were not welcome in their company. Therefore, they resented Jesus for receiving them so warmly.

I hope you too are a follower of Jesus. In your opinion, is anyone welcome to join the group? Or are there certain limits?