The Younger Brother...
- When he began to be in need, this actually turned out to be a blessing to him because it brought him back to the father.
- He used the father to seek his own selfish end by asking for his inheritance and seeking after other things.
The Older Brother...
- He demonstrates a very close parallel to the Pharisees, the primary audience for this parable.
- Unlike the younger brother, he did not realize his need, and this kept him to the father. He was blind to his condition.
- He has been so focused on doing the right things that he has missed out on his relationship with the father. Thus, he is not secure in the father's love.
- He seems very disconnected from the family, and he feels superior to his brother.
- Just like the younger brother, he tried to use the father for his own selfish gain: he thought by obeying him, he could gain control of the father.
The Father...
- He didn't contest to the younger brother's original selfish request to take his inheritance.
- He responded in different ways to each of the sons - ways which were appropriate for each of them. He RAN to the younger brother, and he quietly reminded the older brother of the truth and invited him to join the feast.
- Both brothers demonstrate a way to be separated from God. However, the older brother's way is more dangerous because someone like the older brother is blind to their need of God.
- When we're like the older brother, we're missing the point. Why do we try to work to get to heaven (where we will eternally be with God) instead of just enjoying being in relationship with Him now?
- We must be careful of our motives behind doing the right thing - are we trying to earn something (so that God will "owe" us), or are we doing something because it stirs up our affection for Jesus?
- We must realize our need for God. This factor was a key difference in how the brothers ended up.
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