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10 Surprising Facts about the Biblical Prodigal Son

The parable of the prodigal son is among the most beloved stories in the Bible. It is found in the book of Luke Chapter 15 verses 11-32, it is based on the story of a young man who uses all of his inheritance, becomes poor then goes back to his father’s house. The story is told by Jesus to teach us that God loves us unconditionally and that he is always willing to forgive us when we repent our sins.

Through the story, we can learn the transformative power of repentance and the joy of reconciliation. The Prodigal Son shows the contrast between the self-serving and wasteful lifestyle of the Prodigal Son and the selfless behavior of the older son.

Here are the 10 Surprising Facts about the Biblical Prodigal Son;

1. He wanted an Extravagant life

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The parable begins with a man with two sons, the younger one said to his father, “Father, give me my share of the estate.” So the man divided the property between the two sons. However, the man was disappointed because the request suggested that the son was dissatisfied with his life at home and wanted to strive on his own. After the younger son got all he had together, he set off to a distant country and used all of his inheritance.

2. He Suffered in a Distant Country

There was a severe famine in the entire country leaving the son in need. He didn’t have any money left to buy food and no one offered to feed him. So, he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, his job was to feed the pigs. After suffering for a while, he came to his senses and decided to go back to his father’s house because he was well taken care of.

3. His Father welcomed him with Open Arms

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While the son was on his way, the father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him, and kissed him. The son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and against you, I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” However, his father said to the servants, “Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate.” 

4. The Older Son became Resentful of his Brother

The older brother became angry and refused to go in. His father pleaded with him but he answered him, “Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. But this son of yours squandered your property with prostitutes comes home and you kill the fattened calf for him.”

The father reassured him that his inheritance was still intact and that he had always been loved and cherished. He also reminded the older son that the celebration is not only about the return of the prodigal son but also the restoration of a lost soul.

Read about the story of Ruth in the Bible here.

5. It is a Universal example of Forgiveness

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The parable has become popular because it resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. It has been in has been interpreted in a number of ways throughout history. The parable also symbolizes the relationship between God and his unwavering love for his son. It has been seen as a reminder of God’s unconditional love for us. God is always willing to forgive us when we repent our sins just like the father forgave his younger son.

6. The Parable highlights the Importance of Family

It should be noted that the parable emphasizes the importance of family bonds as well as the forgiveness that is possible within families. The parable also shows us that we shouldn’t give up on our loved ones even when they make mistakes. The son’s decision to return home and seek forgiveness from his father is a reminder that reconciliation is possible. The father’s willingness to embrace his son emphasizes the importance of forgiveness within families.

Click here to read about Elijah from the Bible.

7. It also Teaches Shared Responsibility

The father told his oldest son that he still loved him and that his inheritance was intact. This showed that the father loved both of his sons. Forgiveness is also a part of shared responsibility because the father lets go of his anger and resentment and welcomes his son back home with open arms. He was empathetic, understanding, and supportive of both his sons.

8. The Parable shows the Power of Repentance

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It should be noted that before the prodigal son goes back home, he lives a life of wickedness. He squanders all of his money and ends up poor in another country. When he comes back home, he asks for forgiveness for leaving, through this we see the importance of repentance and turning away from sin. We also see the prodigal son seek for God’s forgiveness. Christians learn that when we repent, we are opening ourselves up to God’s grace and allowing ourselves to be renewed.

9. Family Bonds is an Important Theme

The parable shows the importance of family relationships as well as the enduring nature of family bonds. The prodigal son shows how even when family members make mistakes, the bonds of love and forgiveness can bring them back. The passage also highlights the enduring nature of family relationships and the power of forgiveness. The father’s love for his sons is unwavering even though the youngest one made reckless choices with his money. 

When the family celebrates the coming home of the prodigal son, it emphasizes the enduring strength of family bonds. The family is able to let go of anger and resentment and celebrate together. This demonstrates the resilience of family relationships.

Read more about Enoch in the Bible here.

10. It has a profound Impact on Young Adults

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The parable of the Prodigal Son has a profound impact on young adults as they navigate the complexities of identity formation, relationships, and independence. Young people are encouraged by the passage because they can reflect on their actions and make the right choices. It can also teach them the importance of extending forgiveness to themselves. While recognizing that forgiving wrongdoers is not condoning the sin but offering them a chance to grow and heal.

Click here to read about the 35 famous Bible verses.

All in all, the parable of the prodigal son is a great passage that offers a number of valuable lessons for people of all ages. It has timeless themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and love. The passage can provide inspiration to many who have lost their way but want to start afresh. Christians can also learn the true meaning of God’s love and patience.