Quote:
Originally Posted by Timmy
Not sure it's obvious, but OK.
What else besides God's rules would possibly inspire rebellion? What is "his way" vs the "Father's way", if not a different set of rules that the rebel prefers?
But you could be right about the intended meaning, of course. I'm just sayin'.  |
The concept of a "rule relationship" was the elder brother's folly. Depending on, relying on, enjoying the providence of the father is what the Father wants. It's not rule adherence the Father wants. It's gracious receiving that matches his gracious offering.
Yes, "his way" vs. "the Father's way" could be minimized at "rules." But it's more than that. It's an entire way of living life that isn't working out for any of us. When we live our way, we end up in death.
IMO, the lost son was not even coming home, except to scheme a way he could have a little better of a life. He schemed a way he could work himself in, rehearsed his offer countless offers -- but before he could get a word out, the Father was running for Him, throwing himself on Him with lavish --and yes, prodigal, love. When he did go into his rehearsed lines, the love intensified. He was given authority back in the home, completely restored. This was not what the son expected.
As Baron said, the point has more to do Jesus telling the crowd that he came to "seek and save that which was lost." He's not interested in those who think they have it all together, those who are righteous on their own and not in need of a Savior. He didn't come to "save the righteous." Each of the three stories centers, and focuses, on the father's extraordinary love.
Not rules and how they are good for us.
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