Timothy Keller in this very readable book brings fresh insights to the parable of the prodigal son. No matter how well you may feel that you know this parable there is so much more to learn from it here. The author believes that this parable contains the central message of the Christian faith.

Although always referred to as the “Prodigal Son” this parable is actually about two sons and the author believes its important that we keep this in mind. When Jesus told the parable he was addressing two groups of people: the tax collectors and sinners (who are represented by the younger son) and the Pharisees and religious rulers (who are represented by the older son).

Both groups needed to know the love of the Father as portrayed in the parable and Timothy Keller makes some very interesting and challenging observations about “older sons” and how they too need to come home to God. It does not matter how religious we may be as sometimes that can prove to be a hindrance to responding to the love of the Father.

The parable, as the author points out, does not actually have a proper ending as such because it finishes with the Father inviting the older son to go into the feast and we are not told how he responds.

I’ve read the book twice myself and would highly recommend it.