New Testament
Luke 15:20
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So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him, felt compassion, ran to him, embraced him, and kissed him.
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And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
What Luke 15:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a powerful moment of reconciliation between a father and his son. The son, who had previously squandered his inheritance, decides to return home, feeling remorseful. The father, seeing his son from a distance, is filled with compassion. Instead of waiting for his son to reach him, he runs to embrace him, showing unconditional love and forgiveness. This act signifies the father's joy and eagerness to restore their relationship. The father's actions reflect a deep emotional response, highlighting the themes of mercy and acceptance. The embrace and kiss symbolize not just forgiveness but also the restoration of the son's place in the family. This moment illustrates the heart of the Gospel, where God welcomes back sinners with open arms, regardless of their past mistakes. It emphasizes the importance of humility in seeking forgiveness and the joy that comes from reconciliation.
How to apply Luke 15:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to approach those we have wronged with humility and a desire for reconciliation. It reminds us that forgiveness is powerful and that we should be quick to show compassion, just as the father did. Embrace opportunities to mend broken relationships.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Luke 15:20
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 15:20 teach about forgiveness?
Luke 15:20 illustrates the essence of forgiveness through the father's actions. He does not wait for his son to apologize but runs to him, showing that true forgiveness is proactive and unconditional. This teaches us that we should be ready to forgive others, regardless of their past mistakes, and approach them with love and compassion.
How can I apply the message of Luke 15:20 in my life?
You can apply the message of Luke 15:20 by being open to reconciliation in your relationships. When conflicts arise, approach the situation with humility and a willingness to forgive. Just as the father embraced his son, seek to restore relationships with compassion and love, showing that you value the connection more than past grievances.
What does the father's reaction in Luke 15:20 signify?
The father's reaction in Luke 15:20 signifies unconditional love and acceptance. His willingness to run to his son despite the son's mistakes highlights the joy of reconciliation. This reflects God's love for us, emphasizing that no matter how far we stray, we can always return and be welcomed back with open arms.
Why is the father's compassion important in this verse?
The father's compassion in Luke 15:20 is crucial as it demonstrates the core message of mercy and grace. His immediate emotional response to see his son returning shows that love transcends past wrongs. This compassion serves as a model for how we should treat others, reminding us to respond with empathy rather than judgment.
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