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.