Parable of New Cloth and New Wineskins

Date: February 10, 2025

Day: 1

Text: Matthew 9:14-17, Luke.5:33-39

Introduction

The parable of New Cloth and New Wineskins was spoken by Jesus, in response to a question about fasting. The Pharisees and teachers of the law were challenging why Jesus’ disciples did not fast like John the Baptist’s disciples or the Pharisees. Jesus used this parable to illustrate that His ministry was bringing something entirely new, the New Covenant.

• The Old Garment & Old Wineskins represent the religious traditions, laws, and rituals of Judaism under the Old Covenant. These were rigid, unable to expand or adjust to the new work of Christ
• The New Patch & New Wine symbolize the message of grace, transformation, and the kingdom of God that Jesus was ushering in.
• The Warning: If you try to fit the newness of Jesus’ message into the old, legalistic framework of the Law, it will not work. The new requires a completely renewed vessel.

Life Lessons from the Parable:

1. The Gospel of Christ Brings Transformation

Jesus did not come to patch up the Old Covenant but to fulfill and establish a New Covenant. Hebrews 8:6-13. The newness of life in Christ cannot be contained in the rigid structures of legalism and self-righteousness, we must understand that at salvation, the Holy Spirit renews and transforms our hearts (2 Corinthians 5:17).

2.Spiritual Renewal Requires a Willing and Flexible Heart

The old wineskin represents a hardened, unteachable heart that resists change. The new wineskin represents a heart that is open to God’s work, willing to be stretched and renewed by the Holy Spirit (Ezekiel 36:26). If we hold onto the past without embracing God’s new work, we can miss out on the fresh move of the Spirit.

3. Mixing Old and New Leads to Ruin

Just as new wine expands and needs a flexible container, our faith must be flexible and open to God’s revelation. Trying to mix old traditions and human effort with the gospel of grace leads to frustration and spiritual stagnation (Galatians 5:1-4). We must let go of religious formalism and embrace a dynamic relationship with Christ.

4.The Human Tendency to Cling to the Past

Change is one of the most difficult things for people to embrace. In verse 39 of Luke 5, Jesus acknowledges that people often resist change: “The old is better “. Many prefer old ways because they feel familiar and comfortable, even when God is calling them into something greater. Spiritual growth requires stepping out in faith and embracing the newness God offers. Isaiah. 42:16

Life Applications of The Parables:

1. Examine Your Heart for Old Wineskins

Are there areas in your life where you resist God’s new work? Do you cling to traditions, habits, or mindsets that hinder your spiritual growth? Ask God to reveal anything that needs to be surrendered for Him to do something new. 1Corinthians.2:10-11

2. Be Open to Spiritual Renewal

Spend time in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to make your heart like a new wineskin—ready to receive and grow in His truth. Stay teachable and willing to change as God leads you into deeper understanding. John 14:13-17 

3. Let Go of Legalism and Embrace Grace

Salvation is by grace through faith not by human effort or religious traditions. Ephesians 2:8-9.  Live in the freedom Christ has given you, and do not be burdened by unnecessary religious rules.

4. Allow the Holy Spirit to Stretch and Expand Your Faith.

Just Like new wine expanding, our walk with Christ requires growth and change. Study the Word regularly, pray for guidance, and be willing to step into new spiritual experiences. John 14:26

5. Be Willing to Let Go of the Old and Trust God for the New

Do not fear change when God is leading you. Trust that His plans for you are good Jeremiah 29:11 and that stepping into the “new wine” of His Spirit will bring greater joy and purpose.

Lesson of the Day

The parable of the new and old wineskins challenges us to evaluate whether we are clinging to outdated, ineffective spiritual habits instead of embracing the newness of life in Christ. God desires to do something fresh in our lives, but we must be willing to let go of the past and allow Him to renew us.

Complied by: Toyin Akanle