The Golden Calf vs The Fatted Calf

INTRODUCTION

This is a continuation of the post on the parable of the Prodigal Son.

Fatted calf is a metaphor or symbol of festive celebration and rejoicing for the long-awaited return of someone. When the prodigal son returns, the father "kills the fatted calf" to show that the celebration is out of the ordinary.

The Golden Calf speaks of dead works.

The Fatted Calf alludes to life more abundant because of the sacrifice of Jesus.

THE OLD AND NEW CONVENANTS

This brings to mind the Golden Calf of Exodus 32. It is interesting how the Gospel or Good News of salvation can be perceived when we compare it with the Fatted Calf of the prodigal son parable.

THE OLD COVENANT

The account of Exodus 32 speaks of the Old Covenant.

The Law is angry with sinners.

Even though the Golden Calf was burned, the people were still struck with a plague for the sin. It points to the truth that salvation is not by works but by grace through faith – Exodus 32:35; Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8-9.

The Law sees sins and punishes the sinner – Deuteronomy 5:9; Ezekiel 18:20, Romans 7:12.

The people were dancing to immorality – Exodus 32:6.  There was immense pleasure but absolutely no benefit – Psalm 103:1-5; Romans 6:20-1. They were dancing with the snake.

The Law was given through Moses as a demand placed on sinners to be punished for their sins – John 1:17. 

THE NEW COVENANT

The gracious Father rejoices over the long-awaited return of sinners.

The Fatted Calf was killed for an extraordinary celebration. It alludes to God the Son Who came as Jesus of Nazareth to be crucified for our sins and resurrected for our justification – Romans 4:25.

Under the New Covenant, we get to hear the joyful grace of God (Word of salvation through Christ) and repent for the forgiveness of sins – Luke 24:47; Romans 10:17; Ephesians 2:8-9. 

We are saved by grace (Jesus – John 1:17; Romans 5:8) through faith (Jesus – Galatians 3:23-25).

The joy of salvation produces music and dancing to the goodness of God - 2 Samuel 6:14-22. It is pure pleasure with true benefits.  It is dancing with the Savior. 

Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ – John 1:17. 

God the Son came in the form of Jesus of Nazareth as a gift; a supply. 

Grace supplies the punishment due sinners. 

“Catch you by supplies” – Just kidding.

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