Introduction

In this sermon, we will explore the parable of the Prodigal Son, which actually reveals the character and nature of our loving Heavenly Father. Jesus used this story to teach us about God's unconditional love and His willingness to embrace those who have strayed away from Him. It is important to understand the true nature of God, as it shapes our beliefs and relationship with Him. Let us dive into this powerful parable and discover the steps to return to God.

I. Steps Away from God's Blessing

The younger son in the parable did not suddenly find himself in a pig pen. He reached that point through a series of bad choices and steps. Initially, he had a restless attitude, feeling that he was missing out on the fun and excitement of life. This restlessness led him to demand his inheritance and leave home. He believed that life would be better outside the boundaries set by his father. However, this attitude of restlessness is a dangerous temptation that can lead us astray from God's blessings.

The next step the younger son took was engaging in reckless living. He squandered his inheritance on wild and extravagant living, seeking pleasure and instant gratification. He pursued a life without rules, thinking that it would bring him happiness and fulfillment. Unfortunately, sin never truly satisfies, and it eventually leads to ruin and suffering.

Ultimately, the younger son's life ended up in ruins. When his money ran out, his friends deserted him, and he found himself in a pig pen, starving and desperate. Sin had enslaved him, and he realized the depth of his misery. The pig pen represents the ugly and putrid nature of sin, where it leads us when we choose to walk away from God's blessings.

II. Steps to Return Home to God

If you have strayed away from God and allowed sin to control your life, there is hope for you. The prodigal son took three specific steps to return to his father, and these steps can guide us back to our Heavenly Father as well.

1. Realize: The first step is to come to our senses and realize the mess we are in without God. We must recognize that we are missing out on the abundant life God offers us. This realization leads us to the point of total desperation, where we acknowledge our need for God's love and forgiveness.

2. Repent: Once we realize our sinful state, we must confess our sins and turn away from them. Repentance involves admitting our wrongdoings to God and seeking His forgiveness. It requires a change of heart and a willingness to leave our sinful ways behind.

3. Return: The final step is to take action and return to God. We must make a conscious decision to come back home, just as the prodigal son did. This step requires humility and a desire to be reconciled with our Heavenly Father. When we take this step, we will find that God is eagerly waiting for us, ready to embrace us with open arms and restore us to a place of honor and love.

Conclusion

The parable of the Prodigal Son teaches us that no matter how far we have strayed from God, He is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. We may have made bad choices and experienced the consequences of our actions, but God's love and forgiveness are always available to us. Let us not wait until we reach rock bottom before returning to God. Instead, let us come to our senses, repent, and take the necessary steps to return home. Remember, there is no place like being in the loving presence of our Heavenly Father.

Get the Full Sermon

• Sermon Notes
• Midweek Discussion Questions