The Big Brother Bother

On more than one occasion, when I have taught the parable of the Prodigal Son, people have objected on behalf of the older brother. They feel that his gripe is legitimate. They think that the Father is playing favorites with the younger brother.

One person got so upset by it that I think he missed the beauty of perhaps Jesus' most wonderful story, the outlandish compassion of our heavenly Father.

I think this is important to clear up, because it will affect how we view our Heavenly Father and all those who would approach him. This is the context of the story (see verse 1 and 2). It is important to see the failings of the older brother (as well as the younger), and the generosity the Father shows both of his sons.

With that said, here is the case against the older brother:

1. He lacks the love of the father. It's easy to judge your siblings, but what father wants his child enslaved by a Gentile, tending pigs and starving? Or what father could allow his son to be his slave, see him everyday and treat him as a stranger?

It was the older brother's responsibility to plead to his father on behalf of a wayward brother. This older brother takes the opposite route. It is hatred fueled by jealousy, pride and pettiness.

Interestingly, there was a rabbinical parable of a prodigal son whose father does force him to be a slave to teach him a lesson. But that vindictive behavior does not reflect the Father in Heaven. But that story (if well-known) would have made Jesus' twist all the more dramatic.

2. He dishonors his father. Look at the humble words the "sinful" son uses upon his return. Now look at the obstinate words the older brother uses. He does not address him as "father". He shows great disdain for his brother, and his Father's decision to celebrate his return.

It is somewhat rude in our culture. It would have been seen as much worse in such a patriarchal culture.

3. He was ungrateful for what he had been given. His emphasis was how he had earned so much and received so little. His father's retort was how he had been given everything, while not acknowledging that any of it had been earned.

4. He is hypocrite regarding his father's mercy. While he had to know that his behavior was disrespectful, he wanted his brother's disrespect punished. His father continues to show him great mercy. See the way he seeks him out. Hear the tenderness as he addresses him as "my son".

So, I say, be careful not to pity such a dark reaction to the Father's love. Show mercy to older and younger brothers alike without excusing their behavior.