Christ-like Character, Part 3 - by Justin Louw
Sermon summary:
The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15 reveals the heart of God as the perfect Father and challenges us to reflect His character in our relationships. When the younger son demanded his inheritance (Luke 15:11–12), the father did not rebuke him or force him to stay. Likewise, the older brother failed to help or pursue his younger brother. In different ways, neither son reflected their father’s heart. Yet the father remained intentional about his relationship with both sons, even as he allowed them the freedom to learn from life’s lessons.
Jesus demonstrated the perfect relationship with the Father. Hebrews 5:7–8 shows that His relationship was built on vulnerability, persistence, suffering, and obedience. Through this deep and intentional connection, Jesus perfectly reflected His Father’s character.
God’s nature is love (1 John 4:8), and love is the clearest reflection of our heavenly Father. Jesus taught that this love must be practised and demonstrated in our relationships. The father in Luke 15 modelled this beautifully. When the younger son returned, the father ran to meet him (Luke 15:20), showing compassion rather than condemnation. He was more concerned with restoring connection than enforcing correction. Instead of saying, “I told you so,” he celebrated repentance and restoration.
The father also dealt gently with the older son, offering loving counsel and reminding him that he was always cherished (Luke 15:31). This reflects God’s way of handling tension—with mercy and grace. As Psalm 40 describes, God lifts us from the mud and places our feet on solid ground.
The Pharisees in Luke 15:2 could not recognise the Father’s heart reflected in Jesus. Christlike character, however, is revealed when we intentionally pursue loving relationships, extend mercy, celebrate restoration, and reflect the perfect Father to those around us.
Watch the full sermon on our YouTube channel (the lesson starts at 52 mins).
