Luke 15:28

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

Translations

Modern
The older son became angry and refused to go in. So his father came out and pleaded with him.
Traditional
And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.
Literal
But he was angry and was not willing to go in. And his father, having gone, was imploring him.
Latin
Indignatus est autem, et nolebat introire. Pater ergo illius egressus, cœpit rogare illum.

Original

Greek
English
The older son became angry and refused to go in. So his father came out and pleaded with him.

Notes

The older brother was angry that his father would forgive such a sinner when he, the faithful son, had worked hard to achieve his position. Like the religious leaders, he refused to rejoice when his brother was found.

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.

Events

Parallels

Deuteronomy 21:18–21

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Gospel Jesus Christ Judaism Love Luke, Gospel of Parable Sin

Topics

Inheritance: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Jealousy: The Brother of the Prodigal Son 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 Joy of the Father, when his Prodigal Son Returned Joy: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Parables: Parables of Christ: Prodigal Son Penitent: Promises To Prodigal Son: General Scriptures Concerning Select Readings: The Parable of the Prodigal Son Self-Righteousness: General Scriptures Concerning Young Men: General Scriptures Concerning