In the context of warnings, let’s look at the well-known Parable of the Two Sons (most often called “The Prodigal Son”). I wrote about the parables of Luke 15 extensively, beginning here. Today, let’s focus on the older brother:

Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So he told them this parable… (Luke 15.1 – 3, ESV)

Remember, Luke 15 is about the contrast between tax collectors and sinners wanting to hear Jesus and Pharisees and scribes grumbling about it! Remember also, that it’s all about fruit. Jesus is trying really hard not only to reach the tax collectors and sinners, which he’s doing a pretty good job of, but also the hard-hearted religious leaders. Hence, the parable of the two sons.

The Prodigal, representing the tax collectors and sinners, comes home. What about the older brother, representing the religious leaders?

Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And 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.” But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him,… (Luke 15.25 – 28, ESV)

It’s a warning. Are you Pharisees going to stay outside judging everyone, including Jesus? Or are you going to join the party?

Most of us who read this blog, including the writer, are in danger of being older brothers, are we not?

I thank him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he judged me faithful, appointing me to his service, though formerly I was a blasphemer, persecutor, and insolent opponent. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. (1 Timothy 1.12 – 15, ESV – We forget that the Apostle Paul, who describes himself this way, was a religious sinner who joined the party.)