The Prodigal Son: From Son to Swine to Servant to Son

Through the parable of the prodigal son, Jesus illustrates the journey from rebellion against God to repentance and restoration; the son leaves his father chasing worldly pleasures, hits rock bottom feeding pigs, repents of his sins and unworthiness, and returns home where the loving father joyfully welcomes him back. This story shows that no matter how far we wander from God, if we humbly repent, He will graciously forgive us and restore us as His children. The scribes and Pharisees resent sinners being welcomed into God's kingdom, but God, Christ, and Christians rejoice when the lost are found and saved.