New Testament
Luke 15:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I don't deserve to be called your son anymore.'
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And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
What Luke 15:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the son acknowledges his wrongdoing and expresses deep remorse for his actions. He recognizes that he has sinned not only against God ('heaven') but also against his father, highlighting the personal nature of his failure. By stating that he is no longer worthy to be called his son, he demonstrates humility and a desire to take responsibility for his actions. This moment is pivotal in the parable of the Prodigal Son, as it marks the son's return to his father after squandering his inheritance. His admission of guilt is a crucial step towards reconciliation, showing that true repentance involves recognizing one's faults and seeking forgiveness. The father's response, which follows in the narrative, emphasizes grace and unconditional love, illustrating the theme of redemption. This verse encapsulates the essence of humility and the importance of acknowledging our mistakes in the journey of faith and relationships.
How to apply Luke 15:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to acknowledge our mistakes and seek forgiveness, both from God and those we have wronged. It reminds us that humility is essential in our relationships. When we admit our faults, we open the door to healing and restoration, allowing love and grace to flourish.
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 15:21
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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 the son mean by 'I have sinned against heaven'?
In saying 'I have sinned against heaven,' the son acknowledges that his actions have not only offended his father but also violated God's moral standards. This phrase highlights the spiritual dimension of his wrongdoing, indicating that sin is not just a personal failure but also a breach of divine law. It reflects a deep understanding of the gravity of his actions and the need for repentance.
Why does the son feel unworthy to be called his father's son?
The son feels unworthy to be called his father's son because he has squandered his inheritance and lived a life contrary to his father's values. This sense of unworthiness stems from his guilt and shame over his actions, leading him to believe that he has forfeited his place in the family. His humility in admitting this is a crucial step toward seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with his father.
What is the significance of the son's admission of guilt?
The son's admission of guilt is significant because it represents true repentance. By acknowledging his mistakes, he takes responsibility for his actions, which is essential for healing and restoration in relationships. This moment is pivotal in the parable, as it sets the stage for the father's loving response, illustrating the themes of grace and redemption that are central to the message of the story.
How does this verse relate to the theme of forgiveness?
This verse relates to the theme of forgiveness by demonstrating the importance of recognizing one's faults before seeking reconciliation. The son's heartfelt confession is a prerequisite for the father's forgiveness, showing that true forgiveness involves humility and acknowledgment of wrongdoing. It emphasizes that both parties must engage in this process for healing to occur, reflecting the broader biblical principle of forgiveness.
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