1) What early childhood memories do you have of a family member, a friend, or perhaps yourself running away (for a short time) from home?

2) Read Luke 15:1-2: What are modern-day parallels to the three groups that Jesus is addressing? (Pharisees, sinners, tax-collectors)

3) Read Luke 15:11-32 what is significant about the fact that the father not only runs to greet his Runaway son, but does not let his son finish what he had planned to say?

4) What sin do the two brothers share in common? What is the heart issue that needs to be addressed in both of their lives? 5) Reflect on these two characters: the one who tried to find his life by running away and the one trying to find his life by being good. Which character can you most relate to in this story? Explain.