Introduction: Lk. 15:11-24 (The story of the prodigal son shows us mans journey into sin and return to God. Today there are two kinds of "prodigal". If you are a Christian who has gone back to sin (II Pet. 2:20) you are a prodigal or if you have departed from the innocence of childhood into sin (Ps. 58:3) you are another kind of prodigal.)
1. Lust And Conception: vs. 11-12 (The son considered his portion of the inheritance and anticipated what pleasure he could enjoy with it.) Jas. 1:13-15 (This shows the same process as it relates to one departing from God into sin.)
2. Given Over To Sin: vs. 13 (It was not long until he went into the far country. Neither will it be long for one entertaining lust to go far into sin.) Acts 17:16 (The picture is of a place totally enslaved to idolatry. The prodigal was totally enslaved to riotous living.) Rom. 6:16 (You either serve God or are a slave to the devil.)
3. Bottom Of The Barrel: vs. 14-16 (He became so low he intensely craved what the hogs were eating. At this point, what did he have to show for his decision to leave the fathers house?) Heb. 10:28-31 (If you have departed from God, you have counted Christ's blood unworthy and are in jeopardy of God's eternal wrath.)
4. The Awakening: vs. 17 (The determination "I will arise" indicates the prodigal has come to from a state of near "insanity".) Heb. 10:32-39 (The Bible prescribes that you like the son, remember the safety and security of the fathers house.)
5. The Humble Return: vs. 18-19 (The son had a planned speech that reflected great humility.) Jas. 4:10 (To be rescued you must admit your need for Christ and humble yourself to return to God.)
6. The Father Awaits: vs. 20 (The father saw him coming yet a great way off which shows he was looking for the son. He then gave him a great reception. God awaits your return!)
7. Obedience: vs. 21 Gospel (Acts 2:38) or prayer (Acts 8:19-23)
8. Acceptance: vs. 22-24 (You have the assurance that God will accept you into his family if you repent and do his will.)
Conclusion: You must wake up to what you are facing (Mt. 25:41) and obey by returning to the Father (II Thes. 1:7-9).
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