New Testament
Luke 15:30
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But as soon as this son of yours came, who has wasted your wealth with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him.
Compare translations
But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.
What Luke 15:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the older brother expresses his anger and resentment towards his father for celebrating the return of his younger brother, who had squandered his inheritance on reckless living. The older brother feels overlooked and unappreciated, believing that he has been faithful and deserving of recognition. His use of the phrase "this son of yours" indicates a deep emotional distance and a refusal to acknowledge his brother as part of the family. The father's act of killing the fattened calf symbolizes a grand celebration, highlighting the joy of reconciliation and forgiveness. This moment illustrates the contrasting attitudes of the two brothers: one who has strayed and repented, and the other who remains bitter and self-righteous. The father's love and grace extend to both sons, emphasizing the theme of unconditional love and the joy of redemption, regardless of past mistakes.
How to apply Luke 15:30 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our attitudes towards others, especially those who have made mistakes. Instead of harboring resentment, we should embrace forgiveness and celebrate the restoration of relationships. It reminds us that everyone deserves a second chance and that love should prevail over jealousy.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 15:30
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 15:30
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 15:30 mean?
Luke 15:30 shows the older brother's anger at his father's celebration for the younger brother's return. It highlights feelings of resentment and jealousy, as the older brother feels unappreciated despite his loyalty.
What is the meaning of 'this son of yours' in Luke 15:30?
The phrase 'this son of yours' reflects the older brother's emotional distance and refusal to accept his brother as part of the family. It signifies his bitterness and resentment towards his brother's actions.
How does Luke 15:30 relate to forgiveness?
Luke 15:30 highlights the struggle with forgiveness, as the older brother cannot celebrate his brother's return due to his resentment. It serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing forgiveness and reconciliation.
What themes are present in Luke 15:30?
Key themes in Luke 15:30 include forgiveness, jealousy, grace, redemption, and family dynamics. The verse contrasts the attitudes of the two brothers and emphasizes the joy of reconciliation.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.