Luke 15:11-12 The Brother Who Invented ‘That’s Not Fair!

Delivery Time: 30 minutes

Breaking News: Son Proves That Yes, You Can Spend It All on Absolutely Nothing. Young Man Gets Advance on Family Fortune, Immediately Regrets Everything. Dad’s Reaction? Somewhere Between ‘I Told You So’ and Unbelievable Grace.’


Section 1. Welcome and Announcements

Welcome!

Good morning, church family! Whether you’re joining us in person or tuning in online, we’re so glad you’re here. Today, we’ll be diving into one of the most beautiful pictures of God’s grace—the Parable of the Prodigal Son. It’s a story of redemption, second chances, and the Father’s unwavering love for us. No matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done, you are welcome here. God’s arms are always open!

Announcements & Upcoming Events

  • Midweek Bible Study: Join us every Wednesday at 7 PM as we continue our deep dive into the Gospels.
  • Community Outreach: We’re collecting canned goods for families in need. Drop off your donations in the church foyer.
  • Baptism Sunday: If you’re ready to take the next step in your faith, sign up for our upcoming Baptism Sunday!
  • Youth Retreat: Registration is open for our youth retreat happening next month. A great time of worship, fellowship, and fun!

Section 2. Call to Worship

A Call to Focus on God

As we gather today, let’s take a moment to quiet our hearts and minds. The world is full of distractions, but right now, let’s focus on the One who welcomes us with open arms.

Responsive Reading (Psalm 103:8, NIV)

Leader: The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.
Congregation: He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.

Let’s worship the Lord together!


Section 3. Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts. Thank You for being a loving and merciful Father who welcomes us home, no matter how far we have wandered. As we worship today, open our hearts to receive Your truth. Let Your Spirit move among us, stirring us to repentance, joy, and deeper faith. We give You all the glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Section 4. Praise and Worship

Lifting Our Hearts in Worship

Let’s stand and lift our voices in praise! Worship is not just singing—it’s an act of surrender, a moment to realign our hearts with God’s goodness. Today, as we sing, let’s remember the love of our Heavenly Father, who runs to meet us with open arms.

Song Suggestions:

  • Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)
  • Reckless Love
  • Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Section 5. Scripture Reading

Introduction to the Passage

Today’s Scripture comes from Luke 15:11-32, the story of the Prodigal Son. This parable paints a beautiful picture of God’s grace, showing us that no matter how far we stray, our Father is always ready to welcome us home.

The Parable of the Prodigal Son (NIV)

15 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”

Luke 15:11-32 The Parable of the Lost Son

11 Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them.

13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.

17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father.

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’

22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.

25 “Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27 ‘Your brother has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’

28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’

31 “‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’”


Section 6. Pastoral Prayer or Intercessory Prayer

Intercessory Prayer

Father, we lift up those who feel lost, broken, or unworthy. May they know Your love is greater than their mistakes. Heal the hurting, restore the weary, and remind us all of the joy of coming home to You.

Congregational Prayer Response

Congregation: Lord, we come home to You. Teach us to walk in Your love and grace.


Section 7. Offering

A Heart of Worship in Giving

Giving is an act of worship. When we tithe, we acknowledge that everything we have comes from God. Let’s give with joyful hearts, knowing our offerings further the work of His kingdom.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Lord, we give these tithes and offerings as an expression of our gratitude. May they be used to bless others and glorify Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Section 8. Special Music

A Song to Prepare Our Hearts

As we reflect on today’s message, let’s listen to this special song, reminding us of the Father’s love and grace.


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Luke 15:11-32 – The Prodigal Secret No One Talks About…

The One Bible Story That Shows You How to Overcome Any Failure… (Even If You’ve Hit Rock Bottom)


There’s a reason this parable has stood the test of time. It’s not just a feel-good Sunday School lesson—it’s a roadmap to redemption, restoration, and renewal. And yet… there’s a twist in this story that most people miss.

Curious? You should be.

Because what you’re about to uncover in Luke 15:11-32 could shift your entire perspective on how God sees you—even at your lowest.


The young man had it all—freedom, wealth, the thrill of adventure. But the world is quick to chew up and spit out those who chase fleeting pleasures.

You know how the story goes: A rebellious son demands his inheritance, squanders it in reckless living, and finds himself knee-deep in a pigsty of regret. But here’s where most people miss the deeper truth…

The real power of this story isn’t just in the son’s return—it’s in the father’s response.

Picture this: You’ve burned every bridge. You’ve let down everyone who ever loved you. And yet, the moment you turn back, arms are already open wide, running toward you. That’s grace. That’s mercy. And that’s the kind of love God has for YOU.

Now, imagine standing in front of your congregation, sharing this truth with them—not as a distant, ancient tale, but as a living, breathing reality for their lives today.


This sermon isn’t just words on a page—it’s a transformational experience.

A Heartfelt Message, Crafted with Love – Every word has been prayerfully written to touch hearts and bring lasting change.

An Easy-to-Follow Expository Outline – Designed for clarity and impact, breaking down Luke 15:11-32 in a way that speaks to everyone in the room.

A Life-Changing Sermon Ready to Deliver – Whether you’re a pastor, teacher, or small group leader, this message is ready to go—powerful, engaging, and deeply rooted in Scripture.

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