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Drawing on his extensive knowledge of both the New Testament and Middle Eastern culture, Kenneth E. Bailey presents an interpretation of the parable of the prodigal son from a Middle Eastern perspective and, in doing so, powerfully demonstrates its essentially Christian message.

During his many years in the Middle East, Kenneth Bailey often lived in villages, thus experiencing peasant life first hand. In getting to know the local people, his understanding of the original meaning of the parables of Christ was greatly enriched. In The Cross and the Prodigal, Kenneth Bailey draws on these insights to bring out not only the literary meaning of the Parable of the Prodigal Son, but also its emotional impact on the original hearers.In the one-act play, 'Two Sons Have I Not', contained in the second part of the book, the author brings into the open the parable's underlying conflicts: Law versus love, servanthood versus sonship, preservation of family honour versus restoration of family fellowship. These conflicts are brought to a climax in the banquet scene that ends the parable.With this reprint, the author's insights into the Parable of the Prodigal Son are made available to a new generation. Kenneth Bailey's writings on the parables of Jesus continue to be brilliantly illuminating.

Why should the cross--an object of Roman distaste and Jewish disgust--be the emblem of our worship and the axiom of our faith? And what does it mean for us today? In this thoughtful, comprehensive study of Scripture, tradition and the modern world, John R. W. Stott brings you face to face with the centrality of the cross in God's plan of redemption.

In this thoughtful, comprehensive study of Scripture, tradition and the modern world, John R. W. Stott brings readers face to face with the centrality of the cross in God's plan of redemption.

In A Prodigal Return: Reflections of a Grateful Heart, you will be encouraged in your walk with God. Ken Jones shares intimately from his own experiences, from his struggle as an alcoholic to his days working as a counselor for troubled kids. Personally familiar with God's forgiveness and compassion, he passionately expresses what God has shown him. If you've ever thought, I'm a Christian. Now what? these devotions will speak to your heart and inspire you to greater faith. Ken Jones gives faith-building suggestions that are touching and humorous. A Prodigal Return shows that God always welcomes the prodigal. If you're seeking to draw closer to God, A Prodigal Return will help you on your path to greater commitment. You no longer have to struggle alone. These devotions will guide you on your daily journey.

Drawing on a lifetime of study in both Middle Eastern culture and the Gospels, Kenneth E. Bailey compares the Old Testament saga of Jacob and the New Testament parable of the prodigal son, offering a fresh view of how Jesus interpreted Israel's past, his present, and their future.