New Testament · Parable
The Prodigal Son Bible Story
A warm, child-friendly version of Jesus' story about a son who leaves home, loses everything, and is welcomed back by a loving father.
Short Bible Story Preview
Jesus told a story about a younger son who wanted his share of the family money before the right time. His father let him choose, and the son traveled far away. At first he thought freedom meant doing whatever he wanted, but soon his money was gone and so were the friends who had gathered around him.
When a famine came, the son became hungry and lonely. He remembered that even the workers in his father's house had bread to eat. He decided to go home and say, "Father, I have sinned." Before he could finish his speech, his father ran to him, embraced him, and brought him home with joy.
The older brother struggled to understand the celebration, but the father explained that mercy was not unfairness. The lost son had been found. Jesus used this parable to show children and parents that God's love is ready to welcome repentant hearts.
Artwork in This Story
The Return of the Prodigal Son
- Artist
- Rembrandt van Rijn
- Date
- c. 1661-1669
- Source
- Wikimedia Commons / Google Art Project Source
- Rights
- Public domain artwork reproduction
Rembrandt places the father's hands at the emotional center of the scene, making mercy visible before the viewer reads a single line of the parable.
This public preview is adapted from the CStory manuscript archive. The complete illustrated and audio experience stays inside the app.
Key Lesson
God's mercy is bigger than our worst mistake, and coming home begins with a humble heart.
Parent Questions
- Why did the younger son want to leave home?
- What changed his heart?
- How did the father show forgiveness?
- When is it hard to forgive like the father?
