The Unforgiveness of the Prodigal son’s Older Brother
The parable of the Prodigal Son, found in Luke 15:11-32, offers a profound lesson on forgiveness and grace. While most of the attention is given to the younger son who squandered his inheritance and subsequently learned repentance, the older brother’s struggle with unforgiveness is also a very important lesson.
When the prodigal son returned home, the father responded with forgiveness, love and great celebration. The older brother, however, was filled with anger and resentment. He refused to join in on the celebration and confronted his father, saying “Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!” (Luke 15:29-30)
The older brother’s unforgiveness was rooted in pride and a sense of entitlement. He viewed his relationship with his father as transactional, believing that his obedience earned him favor. His bitterness blinded him to the grace his father extended to both sons. Instead of rejoicing in his brother’s redemption, he allowed jealousy and self-righteousness to rule his heart.
This part of the parable reminds us that unforgiveness often stems from a lack of understanding of grace. The older brother’s attitude reflects how easy it is to compare ourselves to others, clinging to resentment when we feel wronged or overlooked. Yet, the father’s response invites us to extend grace to others as freely as it is given to us. By releasing unforgiveness, we embrace the joy and freedom that come with celebrating restoration and love.
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
Matthew 6:14-15