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I. THE PRODIGAL'S SIN. Dissatisfaction. Alienation. Estrangement.

II. THE PRODIGAL'S MISERY. Sooner or later every sinner must be taught that to be estranged from God is to be estranged from happiness.

III. THE PRODIGAL'S REPENTANCE AND RETURN.

1. Sanity returns.

2. Comparison of the present with the past.

3. Resolution to return. His condition has conquered his pride.

4. Confession.

5. Action.

IV. THE RETURNING PRODIGAL'S RECEPTION.

1. The Father's advance.

2. Acknowledgment of sin and unworthiness.

3. Honour and dignity.

4. Festivity and rejoicing.

(J. H. Thomson, M. A.)

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KJV: And he said, A certain man had two sons:

WEB: He said, "A certain man had two sons.