The Older Brother
THE ELDER BROTHER
Luke 15:25-35
Introduction: An oft-overlooked lesson. Overshadowed by his younger brother. But, the introduction to the parable mentions “two sons” (v.11), and these eleven verses center attention upon the second son.
As we study this lesson, let us always keep in mind the application of the principles!
I. Background
A. Luke 15:1,2
1. The “publicans and sinners: were gathering around to hear Jesus.”
2. The Pharisees murmured, complaining that “This man receiveth sinners, and eats with them.”
B. The parables of the lost sheep, lost coin, and lost son all were designed to show why Jesus “received sinners.”
1. The shepherd and the woman actively sought the lost sheep (ignorance) and the lost coin (negligence).
2. The father, though he did not go out seeking his willfully rebellious son, gladly received him home when he voluntarily returned.
C. The “elder son” is representative of the Pharisees.
1. Rather than rejoicing when the “publicans and sinners” came to hear of the Kingdom, they were critical.
2. The “elder son” gives us a valuable picture of what we should not be like!
II. Notice the Characteristics of the “Elder Son”
A. Angry (v.28).
1. Angry with the joy of the feast.
2. Angry with the “fuss” that was being made over the wasteful son.
B. Stubborn (v.28)
I,
1. “...and he would not go in.”
2. How many of the Pharisees refused to enter into the Kingdom of heaven because the publicans and sinners entered! (Mt. 21:31- parable of two sons).
3. How many today refuse to follow the Lord lest they have fellowship with “sinners!”
C. Resentful (v.29)
1. “Lo, these many years do I serve thee.”
2. His service must not have been willingly given, but as an obligation only!
3. “Do I have to attend services, etc.”
D. Self-righteous (v.29)
1. “...neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment.”
2. Does this not remind us of the Pharisees’ prayer in Luke 18:11?
3. Was not this the expression of the rich, young ruler? (Mt. 19:20).
4. Self-righteous people never appreciate repentance or forgiveness!
E. Grudging (v.29)
1. “...yet thou never gayest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends.”
2. Displays a selfish attitude that begrudges the “joy of salvation” to others!
3. Is he not saying, in effect, “I deserve these things, and never received them; he does not deserve it, yet he receives!”
F. Unforgiving (v.30)
1. He brought up the son’s wastefulness, and made an accusation which, though it may have been true (“wasted thy substance with harlots”), the elder son did not know it to be true!
2. He, like so many since him, wanted to hold a grudge, and never truly forgive. In his eyes, his father’s younger son would never be good for anything!
III. The Father’s Reply
A. “Son, thou art ever with me” (v. 31)
1. This elder son did not leave home with the rebellious attitude of his brother.
2. He was not a wasteful, promiscuous person.
3. He was not like his brother!
4. But, all of these negatives still add up to ZERO!
B. “...and all that I have is thine” (v. 31b)
1. In the Kingdom of heaven, all share equally the Father’s blessings and glory!
2. When love, mercy, kindness, grace, and forgiveness are showered upon one, it still does not detract from that which is given for the others.”
C. “It was meet...” (v. 32a)
1. This means that it was right, it was suitable, it was fitting to rejoice over the younger son!
2. The father understood the condition of the younger son, and that was cause enough for rejoicing at his return.
3. The elder son, who was so blinded by his own goodness, failed to understand that all need forgiveness!
Conclusion: Let us learn the following lessons from the “elder son”:
1. May we never serve with a grudging, resentful attitude!
2. May we never be so self-righteous that we lose sight of our need of the grace of God!
3. May we always be made aware of the “joy of salvation” every time a sinner returns home!
4. May we remember that “in the father’s house, there is bread enough, and to spare!”