As we think of the elder brother who stayed at home but was equally lost (v25-32), we’re thinking here of those who remain in the church but who spiritually have lost their way. There are certain attitudes we must watch for.

There was a loss of a thankful spirit (v28-29). A cynical and cold attitude can easily take over people who were once bright and enthusiastic.

He also had a loss of a forgiving spirit (v30). Those who know they have been forgiven much will forgive much (Luke 7 v44-47). Those who fail to grasp how much they need to be forgiven, fail to have a forgiving spirit.

The elder son also had a loss of a teachable spirit (v31-32). There is no evidence that this son, who claimed to be so loyal was willing to listen to his father. He had come to a point where he felt he had nothing more to learn.

The big problem of the elder son was losing sight of the wonder of grace. He saw the father as owing him. A sense of being owed does not fit with grace. A greater understanding of grace, of being totally dependent on God’s underserving mercy to us in Jesus is what we all need. This will greatly impact our attitude towards others.