The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith by Timothy Keller
“Recklessly extravagant.” “Having spent everything.” Look up the word “prodigal” in the dictionary, and this is the definition you will find. In many ways, it describes the God that Jesus came to make known to us—a God Jesus referred to as our Father.
Tim Keller’s book describes this extravagant Father-God in all his reckless grace. It’s a familiar story about two sons: the dutiful elder brother and the reckless younger sibling. But while many focus on the foolish and reckless younger son, Keller spotlights the extravagance of the Father, who, upon his foolish son’s return, welcomes him with open arms and throws a lavish celebratory party.
He didn’t deserve it. It wasn’t fair to the elder brother.
If we search our own hearts these are the thoughts we will find lurking in the shadows or maybe boldly and unashamedly standing in the light. But Keller masterfully demonstrates just how opposed these prideful attitudes are to the God who offers forgiveness to all who humbly come to him asking forgiveness for their bankrupt lives.
This book opens wide the doors of God’s grace and forgiveness while confronting our prideful disdain of those who we, deep down inside, don’t really believe deserve it.
In a world where so many churches and Christians are fueled by the demonization of others, there is much that this book can teach us about what it means to live, love, and forgive like Jesus.
Leave a Reply