Luke 15:20

"I am no more worthy to be called your son. Make me as one of your hired servants.”’"

Key Reflection

In Luke 15:20, the prodigal son's heartfelt plea is a poignant expression of his realization and remorse. He acknowledges that he no longer deserves to be considered his father’s son due to his squandering of the family inheritance. By asking to be treated as a hired servant, he demonstrates a deep desire for reconciliation and restoration, understanding that his worth lies in his relationship with his father rather than his actions or status. This scene encapsulates themes of humility, grace, and the overwhelming love of a parent for their child, which resonate deeply within the broader narrative of Luke’s Gospel.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 20. He arose, and came. Was coming. But here is no indication of haste. He did not run, but came driven by his wants, and, as we may suppose, filled with shame, and even with some doubts whether his father would receive him. A great way off. This is a beautiful description--the image of his father's happening to see him clad in rags, poor, and emaciated, and yet he recognized his son, and all the feelings of a father prompted him to go and embrace him. Had compassion. Pitied him. Saw his condition--his poverty and his wretched appearance--and was moved with compassion and love. And ran. This is opposed to the manner in which the son came.

Related Verses

More from Luke 15

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion