Prodigal God, Chapter 3

Chapter 3 – Redefining Sin

1. Describe the two ways to find happiness (p. 29) and why they are so powerful. Give examples of these two ways. Which is more natural to you?
2. “You can rebel against God and be alienated from him either by breaking his rules or keeping them all diligently.” (p. 36-37). Explain this statement and give examples.
3. How do people seek to control God through their obedience? Can you give a personal example?
4. Create a simple chart showing younger brother characteristics, older brother characteristics, and characteristics shared by both.
Younger Characteristics Shared Characteristics Elder Characteristics

5. Where does the older brother find his significance and happiness? Where do we tend to look for our significance and happiness? Be specific. What is the connection to idolatry?
6. Do you agree or disagree that being an elder brother is a more spiritually desperate condition than being a younger brother? Why? (p. 46-47)
7. If you asked the average person on the street to define the word, ‘sin’, what would they say? How does Jesus challenge this definition in the parable?
8. What else was thought provoking to you in these chapters?
9. What has been the key point for you in this lesson?
10. Action Point:
11. Group Challenge