Spiritual Survival Guide
8: Bible Studies for Inside and Out
b. I wonder why the older son stayed home since he felt taken for granted. c. I wonder why the father didn’t just say no to the younger son in the beginning. d. I wonder how the two brothers are going to reconcile. Who and what needs to change? e. I’m awestruck, because Jesus was teaching us that our heavenly Fa- ther loves each one of us prodigal sons and daughters like the father in this parable.
f. My father has a point. I need to shift my emotions from anger to joy. 5.Who do you most identify with in this story? In what ways do your own experiences mirror the characters in the story? 6.What qualities do you admire most in the father? a. His willingness to let the younger son have his way – he wasn’t controlling. b. His patience as he waited for his son’s return. c. The depth of his merciful love. d. His ability to love both of his sons. e. He knows how to party! 7.What stage(s) of the prodigal son’s journey most match where you are right now? a. I’m still in that “distant country” pursuing wild living– far from God and family. b. I’ve had enough time in the pig slop. I’m finally coming to my senses. c. I’m still trying to figure out how to bargain with my heavenly Father. d. I’m feeling the loving embrace of my heavenly Father. e. I’m currently dealing with some enduring resentment from my family. f. It’s been a long and winding road, but I’m finally alive again! 8.What’s the hardest part of Jesus’ parable for you to wrap your mind around? a. I wonder why the prodigal son ever left home since he had it so good.
228
229
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online