The Prodigal Son
Lesson One


The Definition of A Prodigal
(Luke 15:11-21)

 

Intro:

Prodigal - Webster's 1828 defines a prodigal as one who squanders - money, talent, life, testimony, etc. The word prodigal is not in the Bible, but a term we apply to those who go the wrong direction.

A prodigal is one who has left respect, often responsibility, and righteousness. A basic heathen is not a prodigal… he never left!

The inevitable question is "whose fault is it?" or "where did I go wrong." The truth of the matter is we all made mistakes and did not always "train" as we should have (Prov. 22:6). But there is more to it than that.

(2 Chron. 25;1-4) - noting individual accountability. Second Chronicles is the best book in the Bible for studying prodigals and contrast.

 

I. Amaziah - (2 Chron. 25 - Son of Joash)

An imperfect heart leads to:

A. Unholy affections - (Vs. 14)
B. Lack of common sense - (Vs. 17-22)
C. Loss of valuables (Vs. 23-24)
D. Loss of life (Vs. 27)

1. •Problem - Imperfect Heart (Prov. 4:23)
   

 

II. Joash - (2 Chron. 24)

A. Hearts and minds can be established early right here versus (2 Chron. 36:9).

B. Good influences are vital (Vs. 1-4). Jehoiada kept him straight.
C. Weak character allows bad influences (Vs. 15-18).
D. The emphasis shifts to they (Vs. 18-19).
E. Judgment came (Vs. 24-25).

1. •Problem - Weak Character
   

 

III. Uzziah - (2 Chron. 26 - Son of Amaziah)

A. Keen interest in spiritual things - (Vs. 1-5).

B. Pride was his ruination - (Vs. 16-18). Pride led him to believe that he could by-pass God's word.
C. Judgment - (vs. 19-21).

1. •Problem - Pride
   

 

IV. Manasseh - (2 Chron. 33 - Son of Hezekiah)

A. Good parentage does not guarantee anything (Vs. 1-2)

B. He was fixed in a direction at 12 years of age.
C. But previous righteousness may have paid off (Vs. 10-16).

 

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