February 2, 1994
In our society, fairness and equity are in strong demand: when we behave well and work hard, we expect rewards. This mindset, though, leaves little room for grace. Taking us to the parable of the prodigal son, Alistair Begg examines the character of the older brother, who complained of unfairness at his father’s mercy. Through the father’s loving example, we learn of God’s grace in giving us not what we deserve but what we as His children could never achieve by ourselves.
25“Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.’ 28But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, 29but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might ecelebrate with my friends. 30But when this son of yours came, fwho has devoured gyour property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!’ 31And he said to him, ‘Son, hyou are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32It was fitting eto celebrate and be glad, for this your brother iwas dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’”
Copyright © 2024, Alistair Begg. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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