The parable of the prodigal son is perhaps the best-known and best-loved of all Jesus' parables. It is also best at generating seemingly infinite numbers of interpretations, understandings and themes.

Start with the way we usually refer to the Luke 15:11-32 text: "The Prodigal Son." True, the behavior of the younger son plays a central role in this parable. But others have noted that an equally precise title for this tale might be "The Waiting Father," or "Joy and Repentance," or even "The Parable of the Elder Brother." Each one of these other characters and themes is present with equal force and focus.

In fact, the multiple depths and dimensions of this parable have prompted some scholars to divide it into two separate stories. They would tell the story of the younger son and his experien…