The Lost Older Brother

Recently, Alistair Begg on his Truth for Life broadcast spoke about several steps he uses for preparing a sermon. One of the steps is "think yourself empty." Think about the passage to the point that you don't have anymore you can possibly think about.

So here's what I'm thinking about in regards to the lost older brother in the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32:

• Why did he stay?
• What's the benefit of staying?
• Does he feel responsible?
• Is he afraid of what others might think?
• Is he afraid of taking risk?
• He just does the right thing?
• He loves the father?
• How many would a fattened calf feed?
• Is the whole town celebrating?
• Are relatives gathered?
• Where's mom?
• How am I like the older brother?
• Why is he so angry?
• Does he join in the celebration?

Well, that's just a few of my questions on this passage as I try to think myself empty.

The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen

This is a wonderful book. Nouwen passed away a few years ago. He was a Catholic priest who taught at Notre Dame, Harvard, and Yale. This book is a collection of thoughts on the parable of the prodigal son as it was painted by Rembrandt. If you get a chance read this great book. You can get it at Amazon by clicking on this link.

During our 3 part sermon series on The Prodigal Son we will be contemplating the painting by Rembrandt as well that inspired Nouwen in his book.

Welcome to The Sermon Files

For a long time, I have wanted to develop a way to engage my listeners in the sermon preparation and evaluation process. Enter "The Sermon Files". Here, I will post thoughts on past and upcoming sermons and passages that we are looking at in our Sunday morning worship service. Feel free to comment, ask questions, give feedback...whatever. This blog is here to serve you and help you grow in your relationship with God and his word.

Grace and peace,

Steve