The Lost Son – Redeemed by Grace

This lesson focuses on the younger son in Jesus' parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32), also known as the Lost Son. We'll explore his journey of rebellion, repentance, and the overwhelming grace of his father, which beautifully illustrates God's love for us.

Section 1: Who Was the Lost Son?

• Occupation: Not specified before or after his departure. He likely worked on the family farm before leaving and may have worked various jobs during his time away.
• Marital Status: Not specified in the parable.
• Setting and Place Lived: He lived with his family, presumably on a farm in a rural area. He later traveled to a distant country.
• Known For: 
• Demanding his inheritance early.
• Squandering his wealth on reckless living.
• Experiencing hardship and regret.
• Returning home and being forgiven by his father.
• Time Frame or Date: The parable doesn't specify a precise time frame, but it's set within the context of Jesus' teachings during his ministry in the early 30s AD.

Section 2: Strengths and Weaknesses

• Strengths: 
• Humility (eventually): He eventually recognized his mistakes and humbled himself to return home.
• Repentance: He genuinely repented of his actions and sought his father's forgiveness.
• Weaknesses: 
• Impulsiveness: He acted impulsively in demanding his inheritance and leaving home.
• Irresponsibility: He squandered his wealth on reckless living.
• Pride/Rebellion: His initial actions were driven by pride and a desire for independence, leading him away from his family.

Section 3: Memorable Quotes

• "Father, give me my share of the estate." (Luke 15:12)
• "Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired 1 servants." (Luke 15:21)   

Section 4: Cross-Reference Scriptures

• Luke 15:11-32: The Parable of the Prodigal Son.

Section 5: Name Meanings

• Hebrew Meaning: The parable doesn't give the son's name.
• Greek Meaning: The parable doesn't give the son's name.

Section 6: The Lost Son in Luke 15:24

This verse captures the essence of the father's joy and the theme of redemption. "For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found" speaks to the spiritual death and loss the son experienced in his rebellion and the new life and restoration he finds in his father's forgiveness. The celebration signifies the immense joy that accompanies repentance and return.

Section 7: Legacy and Lessons

• Legacy: The parable of the Prodigal Son is one of the most beloved and impactful stories Jesus told. It beautifully illustrates the themes of sin, repentance, forgiveness, and the boundless love of God.
• Lessons: 
• God's Unconditional Love: The father's extravagant welcome illustrates God's unconditional love and willingness to forgive us when we repent.
• Repentance and Forgiveness: The parable emphasizes the importance of repentance and the transformative power of forgiveness.
• Humility: The lost son's journey highlights the importance of humility and recognizing our need for God's grace.
• Restoration: God desires to restore us to relationship with Him, no matter how far we have strayed.

Closing: The parable of the Lost Son offers a message of hope and restoration. It reminds us of God's immense love and His desire to welcome us back when we turn to Him. May we be inspired by this story to seek forgiveness and experience the joy of redemption.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your boundless love and your willingness to forgive us when we make mistakes. Help us to turn to you in repentance and experience the joy of your grace. Amen.

Thank you for exploring this character study with me. May the Lost Son’s story inspire you to grow in faith and share the good news of Jesus.