The older son. He is symbolic of the Pharisees and teachers of the Law in Luke 15:2. He is also symbolic of some Christians who fall into the trap which James speaks about (James 4:1-4). The older son is angry, because he sees no reason to forgive the younger son and welcome him back. The Pharisees were angry with Jesus, because he offered MERCY to the tax collectors and outcasts. Some sanctimonious Christians find it hard to be happy when "tax collectors and outcasts," "notorious sinners," and in general "people shunned by their peer group" bring themselves home to Christ. Read the message in these scriptures: 1 John 1:10; James 2:10; Romans 3:23; Romans 5:8; 1 Timothy 1:15; Romans 8:1-4; Galatians 3:27.

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Old Testament