Thanks for adding so much to the understanding of the roles of both sons in this parable. It’s interesting how somewhat frequently in Scripture the contrasts of sons (or sisters/brothers) are there to help us reflect on both sides of a parable, or an actual incident in Scripture.
Just to mention two—Martha and Mary, both having something to teach us about serving the Lord; and the parable of the two brothers, each of whom said they would do a special job for their father.
We are always able to view the contrasts and take into our hearts certain lessons that each can give us. All three of you have added thoughts to this parable that gave me new insights to consider.
Thanks much.
That's true! Having so many sons, I often reflect on brothers in the Bible, and wonder what the odds are for mine to turn out well :-).
It's interesting that the conflict between brothers is the first development after the Fall, and that it seems to manifest so early in life. I was reading to some of my sons earlier, with my 1-year-old sitting beside me. The 3-year-old came up and put his head on my knee, and his brother immediately shrieked and whacked him on the head with the book! (Didn't hurt him, James has a head like a cinder block.) My three youngest boys can be like puppies fighting over a bone sometimes.