28 "The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him.
28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.
28 But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him,
28 "The older brother stalked off in an angry sulk and refused to join in. His father came out and tried to talk to him, but he wouldn't listen.
28 But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him.
28 "The older brother was angry and wouldn't go in. His father came out and begged him,
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 15:28
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.