Study Questions

What Happens When The Prodigal Son Relapses

June 28, 2026

Luke 15:11-32

Study Questions

1. Read Luke 15:11–32.

Jesus tells three "lost" parables in Luke 15 (the lost sheep, lost coin, and lost son). What do these stories teach us about God's heart for people who are far from Him?

2. The father responded very differently than people in that culture would have expected.

How does the father's response reshape your understanding of God's character?

3. Read Ephesians 2:1–5.

Paul says we were "dead" in our trespasses, but God made us alive because of His great love and mercy.

How does this passage connect with the father's words, "This my son was dead and is alive again"?

What does it teach us about who initiates our rescue?

4. Everyone struggles with temptation and failure in different ways.

What are some practical things that help you turn back to God instead of hiding from Him when you sin?

5. The older brother was outwardly obedient, but inwardly distant from his father.

Why is it possible to do all the "right" things while still missing the Father's heart?

6. Read Romans 6:1–4.

If God's grace is so abundant, why do you think Scripture takes sin so seriously?

How can we pursue holiness without slipping into guilt, fear, or legalism?

7. The sermon's main idea was that both sons thought like servants, while the father treated them like sons.

What are some ways Christians today can begin thinking like servants instead of children of God?

What difference does understanding our identity in Christ make in everyday life?

8. How should this parable shape the way we respond to people who have wandered from God or are struggling with recurring sin?

How can we reflect the heart of the Father rather than simply reacting to someone's behavior?