1889. The Parable of the Prodigal Son.
In the parable of the prodigal son, who is represented by the prodigal, the sinner or the backslider? Who does the elder brother represent?
C. M. D. There seems to be good reason for saying that the elder brother represents the Jews, and the prodigal, the Gentiles. The two classes of peoples are well represented in the brothers. But above all this is shown—and that is the great object of the parable—the great love of God to the undeserving, whether he be Jew or Gentile, backslider or sinner. God is no respecter of persons.