NEW WINESKINS

Passage: Matthew 9:14~17  

Key verse: 17b


1. The question about fasting (14-15)

Jesus' disciples didn't seem to be religious enough. Some of John's disciples asked Jesus why his disciples didn't fast like they and the Pharisees did. Jesus' answer explains why the gospel is good news. First, the Christian life is joyful like a wedding feast. Jesus is the bridegroom. His disciples are like the guests (or the bride). When Jesus is present, it is the time to rejoice and feast. When he is not there, then we must fast and pray.

2. The changing power of the gospel (16-17)

Religious ceremonies and a pious appearance cannot change a person's heart. The gospel is good news because it makes us new. People who don't want to be changed reject the gospel. They are like old wineskins or an old garment. If the new wine of the gospel is put in old wineskin-like people, they only become angry and defensive because they don't want to be changed or grow as disciples of Jesus.


Prayer: Lord, thank you for the joy of being your disciple. Help me to grow and change until your image is formed in me.

One Word: Be a new wineskin