Define the Relationship

Section 4

You might recognize the story from the last section as the famous story of the prodigal son. When we hear this story we usually think only of the story’s effect on the younger brother. But the younger brother is not the only sinner in this story. In this section, Tim teaches us more about this story and highlights how the older brother also suffered from an estranged relationship with his father.

reflection questions

How do you feel towards the older brother in this story?

What word or phrase would you use to describe the sin of the older brother?

Where do you see examples of the sin of the older brother in our modern-day culture?

Tim said, "If in your heart of hearts you say, “I try very hard to be obedient, I go to church, I…. therefore you owe it to me God to answer my prayers, to give me a relatively good life, and to take me to heaven when I die," then Jesus is your example, but he is not your Savior; you are seeking to be your own savior." Have you ever lived with this kind of an attitude towards God?

We call this oldest brother kind of sin "self-righteousness." It often results in us being angry, demanding and judgmental of others. What self-righteousness do you need to repent of? Talk to God about your own self-righteousness. You can pray silently, out-loud, or you can type your prayer here.