Luke 15:27

And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.

And {G1161} he said {G2036} unto him {G846},{G3754} Thy {G4675} brother {G80} is come {G2240}; and {G2532} thy {G4675} father {G3962} hath killed {G2380} the fatted {G4618} calf {G3448}, because {G3754} he hath received {G618} him {G846} safe and sound {G5198}.

The servant told him, ‘Your brother has come back, and your father has slaughtered the calf that was fattened up, because he has gotten him back safe and sound.’

‘Your brother has returned,’ he said, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has him back safe and sound.’

And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.

Commentary

Luke 15:27 is a pivotal moment in the Parable of the Prodigal Son, as a servant relays the joyous news of the younger son's return to his elder brother. This verse sets the stage for the elder brother's reaction and further illustrates the father's overflowing grace.

Context

This verse immediately follows the father's ecstatic welcome of his repentant younger son, who had squandered his inheritance and returned in destitution. The father had already ordered the best robe, a ring, shoes, and, crucially, the killing of the "fatted calf" for a grand celebration (Luke 15:23). The elder brother, who had been working dutifully in the field, is now informed of the reason for the sounds of revelry.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Joy Over the Lost Found: The central message of Luke 15 is the immense joy in heaven over those who repent and return to God. The killing of the fatted calf is the ultimate symbol of this heavenly rejoicing and an extravagant welcome.
  • Father's Unconditional Love and Grace: The father's immediate and lavish response to his son's return, without requiring him to earn his way back, highlights God's boundless love and grace towards repentant sinners. He doesn't just forgive; he restores to full honor.
  • Celebration of Restoration: The phrase "because he hath received him safe and sound" underscores the profound relief and joy of the father. The son, who was considered "dead" and "lost" (Luke 15:32), is now fully restored, prompting an unparalleled celebration.

Linguistic Insights

The term "fatted calf" (Greek: moschon siteuton - μόσχον σιτευτόν) refers to a calf that was specifically fed and prepared for a special occasion, indicating a significant and costly feast. This was not an everyday meal but a symbol of the highest honor and celebration, reserved for events of great importance. The phrase "safe and sound" (Greek: hygiainonta - ὑγιαίνοντα) literally means "healthy" or "in good health," emphasizing the son's physical well-being upon his return, contrasting with the father's prior fears for his life or well-being.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us of God's overwhelming desire for reconciliation with humanity. Just as the father eagerly welcomed his son, God eagerly awaits the return of those who have strayed. It encourages believers to extend similar grace and welcome to those who repent, fostering an environment of forgiveness and restoration. The "fatted calf" celebration serves as a powerful metaphor for the joy and honor God bestows upon those who come back to Him, a testament to His restorative love.

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Cross-References

  • Philemon 1:16

    Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?

  • Acts 22:13

    Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.

  • Acts 9:17

    And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, [even] Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

  • Luke 15:30

    But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.
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