Discussion Questions
Discuss the story in small groups using the following questions. {10–15 minutes}
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Why were the Pharisees upset with Jesus? Whom did Jesus come to save?
Takeaway
Jesus came to find lost sinners.
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In the last parable, what was lost? What had he done to ruin his life? How did the son think his father would respond when he returned? How did his father respond when he returned to him? What does the story teach us about our Father in heaven?
Takeaway
We are never too lost to return to our Father in heaven.
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What are some of the things the father did when his son returned home? Why did he do them? What does this teach us about how God feels when a sinner repents and returns to him?
Takeaway
God rejoices when someone repents of sins and returns to him.
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How did the older brother feel when his brother returned home and his father rejoiced? Would you have felt the same way? What did his father encourage him to do? How should we feel if Jesus has found us?
Takeaway
We should rejoice that we have been found by Jesus and rejoice when others are saved.
