God as Father: Unveiling God's Love for Sinners, Outcasts, Legalists and Jerks Through the Prodigal Son

by Eitan Bar

This illuminating book goes well beyond the scope of conventional religious commentaries to lead readers on an enlightening spiritual odyssey. It delves into the multifaceted aspects of God's character, specifically focusing on His boundless love, unending forgiveness, and all-encompassing grace for everyone. Written by a distinguished Jewish scholar, the book not only enriches our comprehension of what can arguably be considered the most well-known parable in history—the Prodigal Son—it does so by delving deeply into its cultural nuances and offering insightful reflections on its Judaic roots.

The Parable of the Prodigal Son is far more than a simple story; it serves as a transformative narrative, meticulously crafted to challenge conventional wisdom and redefine deeply rooted perceptions of God. This compact yet thought-provoking "micro-book" will help you delve into the broader, more extensive theological consequences that emerge when you shift your perspective to see God as a compassionate and loving Father in the tapestry of your life.
Dr. Eitan Bar is a Jewish-Christian author of more than one best-selling book who holds Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees in Bible and theology.

Genres: Christianity

119 pages, Paperback

Published October 1, 2023

About the author

Dr. Eitan Bar (born 1984, Tel Aviv) is a Bible scholar, author, and Israeli-Jewish follower of Jesus with multiple advanced degrees in Bible and theology. His unique background—living in Israel, being a native Hebrew speaker, and possessing advanced Christian education—provides a fresh and timely perspective on Christian beliefs and doctrines.

Dr. Bar co-founded ONE FOR ISRAEL Ministry, a Messianic Reformed Baptist non-profit and Bible college. He later left the organization in 2022 and deconstructed his Baptistic-Calvinistic beliefs, becoming an independent author of several books, including a few best-sellers (available on Amazon.com)

Eitan frequently lectures worldwide, primarily in Europe and the U.S., and his Hebrew-language videos, with over 25 million views, have made him a widely recognized figure in Israel for representing faith in Yeshua (Hebrew for Jesus).

Reviews

[Adam Lam · Rating 2 out of 5]

Was alright. Pretty surface level in terms of theology and language - he makes a lot of unsubtantiated claims, and although I might agree with them, he provides no logical, historical, or other reasoning to arrive at them. A lot of repetition that doesn't provide too much value.

The book has a nice sentiment, but its lack of depth and logic detracts from its value.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful. Thought provoking and a must-read.

[Ashley Rheiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always loved the Parable of the Prodigal Son so when I saw this book, I HAD to borrow it from Kindle Unlimited. It’s so good that I’ve already added it to my wish list for my next book buy haul. Definitely recommend ❤️

[CJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author is a sincere seeker of God’s heart. This book was both compelling and encouraging. I really enjoyed his perspective.

[Piotr Albin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Dr Eitan Bar's books (I pretty much have read them all!), and I resonated so strongly with this work in particular. Looking back at my life I have made so many regrettable decisions - ultimately leading to chaos, dead ends, financial ruin, anxiety, unfulfillment, emptiness... one dark, crappy story after another (among several "successes" as well…) Ultimately I was searching for meaning, fulfillment and the Truth. I moved so many times around here in the States (and abroad for about 5 years), constantly searching..... But I ONLY found what I was really looking for when I came to faith In Yeshua at the age of 57 ....and Eitan's prior work (outstanding!) with One For Israel was an important factor in finally leading me to THE Light and THE Truth.... God Bless you, Eitan 🙏 In "God As Father", Eitan unpacks one of Yeshua's most important parables...providing critical historical, linguistic, cultural and theological context to reveal the Truths of scripture in an extraordinary way.... I underlined so many important insights throughout, made MANY notes in the margin, highlighted so many spots in the book (quick read btw, probably took me 2 hours in one sitting). I actually cried when reading "God As Father", and in the end it made me truly appreciate (even more!) the forgiveness, the grace, the mercy and the LOVE from God, from "Abba" that I do NOT deserve.....all my failures, trials, tribulations, stupidity..... but "Abba", the Father provides His boundless love, unconditionally... I could write loads more here. Suffice it to say, this is a truly outstanding work, and an easy & quick read. I will read it again for sure. Keep doing what you're doing, Eitan! Shine that light brightly where it ALL belongs. In Yeshua's name 🙏

[Briar Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

enjoyed this book a lot. I have been struggling with grief the sudden passing of my dear son. When he was going he gave his heart to the Lord. He pressed on till his celebration teens. Then his relationship with God was very weak at times sometimes none existent in my eyes. But he never denied the Lord. He would sometimes be pray with me and talk about a scripture or end times. When he passed away I did not know what his relationship with the Lord was. My son was very troubled and had suffered much trauma. I was unsure of where he was spending eternity. But this wonderful book opened my eyes to our Gods amazing love he has for us and He had for my son. I felt through reading this book that God was waiting for my son with open arms each time my boy turned back to Him or called His name. Reading this book about the Fathers love for us all brought me some peace and assurance. I recommend it if you are doubting God's everlasting love for you.

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much. There were several points I had to hold back tears. Eitan you have no idea how much you are being used by God to heal the hearts of the broken. I would recommend this book to everyone but especially to those who grew up in abusive homes or fatherless homes or grew up in legalism! I feel like this book has given me a gift of understanding the Fathers love for me! My Mom sent a picture of this book to a friend and they said I’ve been hearing all about this book I would be interested in reading it! I ordered an additional copy for my teenagers to read it. I wish I could buy a copy for everyone I know! Shabbat Shalom Eitan! May you continue to be blessed with the knowledge of the Father's heart!

[Nogeil · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Life-Changing Encounter With the Father’s Heart
I’ve read many books on the Prodigal Son, but none came close to this. Dr. Bar opened my eyes to layers of meaning I never knew were hiding in the text. The cultural and Jewish insights were mind-blowing, but what surprised me most was how deeply personal the book felt. Halfway through, I had tears in my eyes as I realized: I am this son—both of them. And God’s love is so much better than I ever dared to believe. This book didn’t just teach me something; it healed something. A treasure.

[Katthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Masterpiece of Clarity, Compassion, and Jewish Insight
This is the kind of book I want to buy for everyone I know. Dr. Bar has a rare gift: he takes a familiar parable and makes it feel brand new—alive, startling, beautiful. His explanation of the father’s actions, set against the backdrop of first-century Jewish culture, helped me understand God in a way that sermons never did. It’s simple, but never shallow; profound, but never complicated. If you want to encounter the God Jesus revealed, this book is a must-read.

[Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Modern Classic—Don’t Miss This One
Wow. Just…wow. I’ve read countless Christian books, but this is one of the few that felt like it shifted something in my soul. The explanation of the father’s robe alone was worth the price. Dr. Bar doesn’t just comment on the text; he opens a door into the Father’s heart and invites the reader to step inside. Whether you’re new to faith or decades into it, this book will leave you knowing God’s love in a deeper and more genuine way. I’ll definitely be buying more copies as gifts.

[Mabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a beautiful commentary of the Prodigal Son parable. I loved having the ancient Jewish culture perspective in better understanding the lavish love of God. Eitan gives you insights of the parable verse by verse to lead you on a journey of connecting with God more deeply with your heart as you reexamined this parable. I recommend it highly to those interested in growing in their understanding of the grace and love of God.

[Dennis Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a beautiful commentary of the Prodigal Son parable. I loved having the ancient Jewish culture perspective in better understanding the lavish love of God. Eitan gives you insights of the parable verse by verse to lead you on a journey of connecting with God more deeply with your heart as you reexamined this parable. I recommend it highly to those interested in growing in their understanding of the grace and love of God.

[Zmlaodra Zmlahz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Short Book With a Long Impact
I picked this up expecting a quick devotional—and ended up underlining half the pages. Dr. Bar writes with warmth, honesty, and a depth that sneaks up on you. The love of the Father isn’t just explained here—it’s experienced. I closed the book feeling lighter, understood, and honestly…cherished by God. Not many books can do that in just a couple of hours. This one did.

[Ainsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant, Healing, and Surprisingly Emotional
As someone who has struggled with shame and complicated family relationships, this book hit me harder than I expected. The way Dr. Bar brings the ancient Jewish world into focus makes Jesus’ parable leap off the page with real emotional power. It’s not only informative—it’s deeply healing. I found myself rereading sections just to let them sink in. If you’ve ever doubted God’s kindness, this book will rewrite that story for you

[Adam Scott · Rating 2 out of 5]

Got about 1/3 through and moved on with my life. If you’ve studied the parable of the Prodigal Son at all, this really adds nothing except the authors opinions - none of which are directly linked to Scripture. Did I think any of his thoughts were contrary to the message of the gospel? Not really. But did they add a lot to the meaning of the parable? Also not really.

[Leslie Fanchon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Is your connection to God merit based (transactional) or grace based (relational)?

I'm glad I read this book. I like Eitan Bar.

Read through this a little each day and thought pages 89-91 represent a good summary.

[Josiah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eitan had some great points. The writing is still quite repetitive but overall good.

[Natalia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eitan Barr is one of the best, reliable biblical scholars in the world to read and trust. Every book opens up new understandings of our bibles. Great work Eitan.
 

[Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book consists of true christian spirituality which much needed in this polarizing era of christian nationalism. Great work. Keep it up and stay blessed.

[Herein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful. A very emotional read for me personally. I do wish everyone would buy this book.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author conveys the message that we have nothing to fear and everything to gain from a close relationship with our Father God.
 

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book.

[Hilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

From my point of view book was amazing.