The Wayward Son Returns, One More Time

L. E. Ted Siverns

《神學與教會》 45卷2期&46卷1期 (2021/01) Pp. 1-36

https://doi.org/10.6888/TC.202101_46(1).0001

摘要

With so much written over so many years about the parable of the 'Prodigal Son' one more attempt from a different angle might seem an unnecessary addition to this 'pendemic'. The author intends through example, poetry, prose and a dash of humor to challenge afresh words that will not stay still. After a relatively long consideration of parable and communication I turn to the parable itself in Luke 15:11b-32. These verses include both parts or 'sides' of the parable. The 'A' side tells of the leaving and returning son while the 'B' side includes the banquet and the brother. The 'A' and 'B' of the parable belong together; you can't have one without the other. I have laced this presentation with admittedly culturally-limited illustrations from English literature hoping they will connect with some if not all readers. Before the message, the vision; before the sermon, the hymn; before the prose, the poem. And before the less than comprehensive bibliography there are examples of creative attempts to restate the parable. This restating is limited to words rather than illustrating with other potentially helpful art forms. Included in the retelling are several examples from other sources but the majority of re-telling is from the present writer.