Luke 15:19

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

Translations

Modern
I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.”’
Traditional
And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
Literal
…no longer am I worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired men.”’
Latin
…jam non sum dignus vocari filius tuus: fac me sicut unum de mercenariis tuis.

Original

Greek
English
I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired servants.”’

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 Jesus Christ Judaism Love Luke, Gospel of Servant Sin

Topics

Afflictions and Adversities: Benefits of, Illustrated Employee: Kindness To 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 Father 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