Intro:

If there is a verb that modifies the noun, prodigal, it would have to be rebel. For every prodigal is in a state of rebellion… going against the morals, standards and truth that have been previously imposed; keeping in mind that there is no rebellion if there are no previous standards. It is a departure - (Dan. 9:3-6).

 

I. First Rebel - Satan - (Isa. 14:12-14)

The reasons for his fall are academic - pride 1st, lust etc. - but it all adds up to rebellion. So to be sure, Satan fans the fire of rebellion, but the seeds of it are in the human heart.

(Rev. 20:1-3,7-10) - How did he get an army after 1000 years of perfect peace & prosperity if rebellion is not in the heart?

II. Israel The Prodigal - (Isa. 1:2-4)

To understand the nature of the prodigal, the best place to study is the Old Testament, and God's relationship with Israel as his child (Isa. 65:1-4).

 

III. Characteristics of Prodigals -

A. Some entire generations are known as rebellious (Ps. 78:1-8; Prov. 30:11-14).

B. Rebellious people gravitate to Egypt (Isa. 30:1,2) - music, styles, trends, philosophy, etc.

C. They want to hear smooth words (Isa. 30:9,10; 2 Tim. 4:3) - therefore they resist the church.

D. Rebellious people hate the prophet of truth (Eze. 2:3-6). Any purveyor of truth becomes a target of criticism.

E. Rebellion is characterized by ingratitude and presumption (Jer. 5:24,25; Rom. 1:21).

F. Rebels gravitate toward false religion (Jer. 5:30,31).

• Try to pick up on warning signs before it blows.

 

IV. What should our attitude be? -

A. A demonstration of disapproval (Eze. 12:1-5).

B. Keep a vigil of prayer and hope (Isa. 65:2).

C. Remember it is contaminating (Deut. 21:18-21), so it may be necessary to prevent access to other children in the family.