The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller
Week 7: Chapter 6 — Redefining Hope
Read Chapter 6 of The Prodigal God. Primary Scripture: Luke 15:22–24; Revelation 21:1–5.
Previewing Week 7 of The Prodigal God
Read 3 of 8 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 8-week guide when you’re ready.
In his final chapter, Keller draws the parable's vision of homecoming outward to its ultimate horizon — the feast at the end of all things — and asks what kind of hope this gospel produces.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Keller argues that the parable ends not with a courtroom verdict but with a party — a feast, music, dancing, and celebration. What does it say about the nature of salvation that Jesus pictures it this way rather than as mere forgiveness of a legal debt?
2.Keller connects the feast in the parable to the biblical vision of the great banquet at the end of history — the restoration of all things. How does that eschatological horizon change the way you think about life now? About suffering, injustice, or loss?
3.Keller says the gospel produces a distinctive kind of hope — not optimism (things will probably work out) and not mere stoicism (things may not work out, but I'll manage) but a hope grounded in the character and promises of God. What is the practical difference between those three postures in the face of hardship?
a.Can you think of a specific situation — personal or in the world — where this distinction between optimism, stoicism, and gospel hope would make a real difference?
b.Keller grounds this hope in the resurrection of Jesus. How does the resurrection function as the 'down payment' on the feast that is coming?