If Fatherhood Was Easy . . .
Luke 15:11-32 

OPEN		(5-10 minutes)

Have you ever “run away” from home?  If so, where did you go?  What happened?

DIG		(20-25 minutes) 		Read Luke 15:11-32

1.   Describe the different stages the prodigal son goes through on his journey.
2.   Is the father wise or foolish for giving the prodigal son his inheritance?  Explain.
3.   Is the older son’s anger justified?  Is the father justified in telling his older son they had to celebrate and be glad?
4.   What is Jesus’ point in telling this parable?

REFLECT	(30-35 minutes)

1.   In terms of temperament and experience, which of the two sons are you most like?

2.   Comparing your spiritual journey with the prodigal son’s journey, where are you now?  At home, but not happy?  In a far country?  Coming to your senses?  On your way home, but not sure what you’ll find?  Just arrived at home?  Enjoying the fattened calf and the party?

3.   As co-heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17), what exactly are you inheriting?  Have you ever been guilty of squandering this inheritance?
4.   The prodigal son learns something about his father by the way the father treats his hired hands.  What have you learned about your heavenly Father by the way He treats others?
5.   The prodigal son understands the importance of apologizing and repenting.  Where do you suppose he learned that?  What does that tell you about your relationship with your heavenly Father?
6.   How difficult is it for the father to love his prodigal son?  His older son?  Are you making it easy or difficult for your heavenly Father to love you?
7.   When the prodigal son returns home, how does his father receive him?  What does this tell you about your heavenly Father receiving you back into His family?
8.   The older son feels there is too much fanfare given to a rebellious child and not enough attention given to his own faithfulness and obedience.  Can you relate?  Please explain.
9.   Which of the two sons will make the better father when they get older?  Why?
10.   What would you like the present and future fathers at Glenpool to learn from this parable?

PRAYER TIME - Thank God for the godly fathers and father-figures who’ve helped shape your life.  Ask God to help you live in a way that honors both God and these men.