John MacArthur’s subtitle of A Tale of Two Sons hints at a different story than the one we learned in Sunday School: “The Inside Story of a Father, His Sons, and a Shocking Murder.” Murder? I don’t remember that part. But you will remember that the story seems unfinished, with the elder brother angrily standing outside. A proper happy ending would have him repenting of his bitter resentment, begging his father’s forgiveness, and being welcomed into the celebration. The family would have been united in joy. But that ending is missing. The real ending, left untold, was finished in real life.
Don’t forget that Jesus told this parable—including the abrupt ending—chiefly for the benefit of the scribes and Pharisees. It was really a story about them. The elder brother represented them. The hanging resolution underscored the truth that the next move was theirs. The father’s final tender plea was Jesus’ own gentle appeal to them. If they had demanded to know the end of the parable on the spot, Jesus might well have said to them, “That is up to you.” The Pharisees’ ultimate response to Jesus would write the end of the story in real-life.
We therefore know how the tale really ended, then, don’t we? It is not a happy ending. Instead, it’s another shocking plot turn. In fact, it is the greatest shock and outrage of all time.
They killed Him.
Since the father figure in the parable represents Christ and the elder brother is a symbol of Israel’s religious elite, in effect, the true ending to the story, as written by the scribes and Pharisees themselves, ought to read something like this: “The elder son was outraged at his father. He picked up a piece of lumber and beat him to death in front of everyone.”
—John MacArthur, A Tale of Two Sons (Thomas Nelson, 2008), 194–195.
We also have a story. Whether we are the prodigal or the elder brother, the ending to our story depends upon our response to Christ.
The invitation to be part of the great celebratory banquet is still open to all. It extends even to you, dear reader. And it doesn’t matter whether you are an open sinner like the Prodigal Son, a secret one like his elder brother, or someone with characteristics from each type. If you are someone who is still estranged from God, Christ urges you to acknowledge your guilt, admit your own spiritual poverty, embrace your heavenly Father, and be reconciled to Him (2 Corinthians 5:20).
And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely. (Revelation 22:17)Now, enjoy the celebration.
—Ibid., 198.
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