The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller
Week 1: Introduction — The Parable
Read the Introduction of The Prodigal God. Primary Scripture: Luke 15:1–32.
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Before Keller makes his argument, he wants us to see the parable freshly — as if for the first time. Come to these questions ready to set aside what you think you already know.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Keller opens by noting the original audience for this parable: tax collectors and sinners on one side, Pharisees and scribes on the other. Why does that original audience matter for how we interpret the story? Who in your own life or context maps onto those two groups?
2.Read Luke 15:1–32 aloud before your group discussion. What details stand out to you that you may have glossed over in previous readings of this parable?
3.Keller argues that the conventional title — 'the parable of the prodigal son' — has caused readers to focus almost entirely on the younger brother. Do you think that is fair? How have you personally tended to hear or apply this parable in the past?
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