Olney Hymns · Chapter
The Prodigal Son explained
This hymn retells the parable of the Prodigal Son, emphasizing that afflictions are often merciful instruments that lead sinners to repentance.
What happens
This hymn retells the parable of the Prodigal Son, emphasizing that afflictions are often merciful instruments that lead sinners to repentance. The prodigal, after wasting his inheritance, is driven by famine to recognize his folly and return to his father, who receives him with joy and forgiveness. The hymn concludes by drawing a parallel between the father's love and God's welcoming grace toward repentant sinners.
Themes in this chapter
Grace and Unmerited Favor
The father's unconditional love and forgiveness illustrate God's grace toward repentant sinners.
Redemption and Salvation
The prodigal's return and restoration symbolize the redemption available to all who repent.
Characters to notice
- The Prodigal Son
The central figure who experiences affliction, repents, and returns to his father.
- God
Implied as the loving father who forgives and welcomes repentant sinners.
- Jesus Christ
The Lord whose love is compared to the father's, welcoming all who come to Him.
Key passages
“Afflictions, though they seem severe, In mercy oft are sent; They stopp’d the prodigal’s career, And forced him to repent.”
Though afflictions appear harsh, they are often sent in mercy; they halted the prodigal's sinful path and compelled him to repent.
Highlights the theme that suffering can lead to repentance.
“His father saw him coming back, He saw and ran and smiled, And threw his arms around the neck Of his rebellious child.”
The father saw his son returning, ran to him with joy, and embraced him lovingly despite his rebellion.
Illustrates the father's compassionate and forgiving response.
“’Tis thus the Lord his love reveals To call poor sinners home; More than a father’s love he feels. And welcomes all that come.”
In this way, the Lord shows His love to call poor sinners back to Him; He feels even more than a father's love and welcomes all who come.
Draws a direct parallel between the parable and God's welcoming grace.