The Parable of the Loving FatherSample

Jesus’ attitude towards people who don’t obey God

“Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear [Jesus]. And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, ‘This man receives sinners and eats with them.’” (Luke 15:1-2)

In his gospel, Luke recounts in detail what Jesus said and did. He does so in order that people who did not have the chance to meet Jesus in person (so, people like us!) can still get to know Him and profit from His teachings.

In chapter 15, Luke describes three parables that Jesus told. We will read the third one closely. But before we do so, it is important to note the occasion on which Jesus told these parables. Some religious leaders noticed that Jesus was welcoming to people groups they despised. “This man is friendly with people that do not obey God,” they objected.

In response, Jesus told some parables. He did not argue with these people. He just told them a story that would make His message abundantly clear. His listeners could draw their own conclusions.

Jesus’ parable is about a man with two sons. The father in the story acts exactly like Jesus, as we will see later on: he welcomes people who do not deserve a friendly treatment at all.

What are your initial thoughts: Was it right for Jesus to be friendly with people who did not obey God? Can you understand why others objected to this?