Sermon Summary: In this passage, we slow down to consider how God pursues those who are lost. When that which is lost is found there is great rejoicing in heaven. In the story of the Prodigal sons, we learn that there are two ways that we can be left outside the party. Rebellion and religious pride. The question remains for the elder brothers, won’t you come to receive the same grace given your brother?
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Memory Verse: And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. Luke 15:20 (ESV)
Discussion Questions:
- Read through Luke 15:11-32. We recommend using the questions from the DNA Meeting Guide to help guide your study of this text. The guide also gives your DNA group a simple structure to work through the passage and discuss together.
- Getting to the Heart - Who do you best identify within this parable of the prodigal sons? What does this Father teach us about God? How might this change the way we relate to God?
- Living the Way of Jesus - Is there an area of your life that you sense God inviting you to leave behind and come home to receive forgiveness? For elder brothers, is there a person or group in your life that you find yourself angry and unwilling to extend forgiveness and grace?
Kids Worship Questions
- Read Luke 15:11-32. Which character do you identify with? Draw a picture of this character.
- How does the father welcome the younger son home after he wastes his inheritance? What does this teach us about God?
- Draw a picture of the feast that the father throws for the younger son who came home. Where would you be in the feast? Why do you think the older brother didn’t want to join the party?