25 "Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing.
25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.
25 "Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing.
25 "All this time his older son was out in the field. When the day's work was done he came in. As he approached the house, he heard the music and dancing.
25 Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing.
25 "Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house,
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 15:25
Commentary on Luke 15:25-32
(Read Luke 15:25-32)
In the latter part of this parable we have the character of the Pharisees, though not of them alone. It sets forth the kindness of the Lord, and the proud manner in which his gracious kindness is often received. The Jews, in general, showed the same spirit towards the converted Gentiles; and numbers in every age object to the gospel and its preachers, on the same ground. What must that temper be, which stirs up a man to despise and abhor those for whom the Saviour shed his precious blood, who are objects of the Father's choice, and temples of the Holy Ghost! This springs from pride, self-preference, and ignorance of a man's own heart. The mercy and grace of our God in Christ, shine almost as bright in his tender and gentle bearing with peevish saints, as his receiving prodigal sinners upon their repentance. It is the unspeakable happiness of all the children of God, who keep close to their Father's house, that they are, and shall be ever with him. Happy will it be for those who thankfully accept Christ's invitation.