Paul Trask introduces a 4 part series examining Luke 15, which includes the parable of The Return of the Prodigal Son.
He explains that one of the most important keys to understanding this chapter is realizing that the entire chapter – in reality – is really only one parable, not three.
The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin and the Lost Son are really then 3 “acts” comprising a single “play,” all conveying a single, unified message.
He then explores the story of the Lost Sheep. According to Jeremiah and Ezekiel, Israel’s leaders have been unfaithful shepherds, on whose watch the sheep have become lost and mistreated. According to the faithful promises of the Father, Jesus has now come as the ultimate, faithful Shepherd to find and restore His own lost sheep, resulting in heavenly rejoicing.
Will Israel’s leaders repent, and then join in this celebration? We are not told. We are left in tension.