Which of the following lessons is not emphasized by the parable of the Prodigal Son?
Answer Details
The lesson not emphasized by the parable of the Prodigal Son is "God pardons the righteous." The parable, as told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, is a story about a father who has two sons. One son demands his inheritance early, leaves home, and squanders it all. When he comes back, the father forgives him and welcomes him home with open arms. The other son, who stayed with the father and worked hard, is jealous of the attention given to the prodigal son. The parable emphasizes God's love and forgiveness towards sinners who repent and turn back to Him, as seen in the father's reaction to his wayward son's return. It also shows that we should not be jealous or resentful of others who receive forgiveness and grace, as seen in the reaction of the older son. However, the parable does not focus on the idea that God pardons the righteous, as it primarily deals with the return and forgiveness of the prodigal son.