Choosing to Return

Luke 15:11-32

The Big Idea

When we recognize that we have done wrong, we can be honest, turn back, and seek forgiveness.

The Bible Story

The Parable of the Prodigal Son

In Luke 15:11–32, Jesus tells a parable about a father and his two sons. The younger son had asked for his share of the father’s property, traveled to a distant country, and wasted it in reckless living. After a severe famine, he became needy and worked in the fields feeding pigs. In Luke 15:17–19, he comes to himself and remembers that his father’s hired servants have enough bread. He decides to return home, confess that he has sinned against heaven and his father, and ask to be treated as a hired servant. This passage records his honest recognition and planned confession. It does not yet describe how his father will respond.

Themes

Compassion Forgiveness and welcome Joy when the lost is found Repentance and return Resentment contrasted with celebration Restoration The father’s generous love

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

The younger son realizes his wrongdoing and prepares to return to his father’s house, intending to confess and ask to be treated as a hired servant.

Talk together

Talk about it

What did the younger son realize?
What decision did he make?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page when teaching repentance, honest confession, and the courage to return after wrongdoing. Invite children to notice that the son’s decision is a hopeful step, not a humiliating ending. Pair it with the next scene to continue the parable, while keeping this illustration focused only on his choice to return.

Source note