Luke 15:18

The Parable of the Prodigal Son · Luke 15:11–32
Read Luke 15

Translations

Modern
I will get up and go back to my father and say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.
Traditional
I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
Literal
Having risen up, I will go to my father and I will say to him, “Father, I sinned against heaven and before you;
Latin
…surgam, et ibo ad patrem meum, et dicam ei: Pater, peccavi in cælum, et coram te:

Original

Greek
English
I will get up and go back to my father and say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.

Notes

Like the previous two parables (15:3–7, 8–10), the parable of the lost son demonstrates God’s love for the lost and the joy God experiences when they return. It also reflects the ministry of Jesus. The father represents God, the younger son represents the tax collectors and sinners Jesus welcomed, and the older son represents the religious leaders.

Chapter 15 contains three related parables of things lost and found:

The loss of something loved causes deep sorrow, whereas finding it brings great joy. There is great rejoicing in heaven when lost sinners return to their heavenly Father.

Theme notes and profiles

God’s Covenant Love

Events

Parallels

Deuteronomy 21:18–21

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Gospel Heaven Jesus Christ Judaism Kingdom of God, Kingdom of Heaven Love Luke, Gospel of Servant Sin

Topics

Afflictions and Adversities: Benefits of, Illustrated Afflictions Made Beneficial in Convincing Us of Sin God: Love of, Exemplified Jesus, the Christ: Enunciates the Parables of the Lost Sheep, of the Lost Piece of Silver, of the Prodigal Son Jesus, the Christ: Parable of The Prodigal Son and his Older Brother Joy in Heaven Mercy: should be Shown: To Backsliders Parables: Parables of Christ: Prodigal Son Penitent: Promises To Prodigal Son: General Scriptures Concerning Repentance: Exemplified Repentance: Illustrated Repentance: Illustrated: The Prodigal Son Repentance: The Prodigal Son Select Readings: The Parable of the Prodigal Son Servant: Hired: The Rebellious Son Sin: Confession of The Anger of God is Averted Upon Confession of Sin and Repentance The Mercy of God: Manifested: To Repentant Sinners Young Men: General Scriptures Concerning