Prodigal Son Distorted by FB Pastor

[mizpeh]

Originally Posted by Socialite

I just don't think that's supported in the story, Miz. It's a parable, intended to communicate a truth. The characters in this story are 3 -- and each have a part. The younger son's is that he was a sinner who was loved back into the Father's house. In the story, the way we have it, his repentance doesn't really have a part in it. That's not to say we wouldn't be sorry, wouldn't repent, etc... It's just not in the story.

Back to my "scheming theory." This is how I approached God in times past. I felt sorry, and wanted his love back. My repentance was about offering God things I'd do for him. It made me feel spiritual (not necessarily loved, but if loved, then very much temporarily -- as soon as I broke one of my inspired vows). This has been mine, and many others' approach to God. At the time of Jesus, it was a common approach to him too! What was not common was God loving us in spite of that. Showing Grace in spite of that.

I will explain the "shameful" part, and in how I use the word. You will see the Father definitely shamed himself. And the son's departure was much more violent and scandalous than our modern eyes read.

Well, I guess we'll have to disagree then. But it seems like you are projecting your own motives upon the younger son. In the context of Jesus preaching the gospel, what he would say to sinners and the audience he was speaking to, I think the younger son coming back to his father with a repentant heart is more fitting in this parable.