New Wine into Old Wineskins

New Wine into Old Wineskins is a parable told by Jesus in the Christian New Testament, found in Matthew 9:14–17, Mark 2:21–22, and Luke 5:33–39. It is one of the teachings of Jesus that illustrates the necessity of change to accommodate new practices and ideas. In this parable, Jesus uses the metaphor of putting new wine into old wineskins to explain that new teachings and practices cannot be forced into old, rigid frameworks without causing harm.

Text of the Parable

The parable is mentioned in the synoptic gospels but with slight variations in each account. The version from the Gospel of Matthew (9:17) reads: "Neither do men pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved."

Interpretation

The interpretation of the parable has been the subject of much discussion among theologians, Biblical scholars, and historians. The consensus is that Jesus used this parable to illustrate the incompatibility between his teachings, which he referred to as "new wine," and the old Jewish laws and traditions, symbolized by the "old wineskins." The parable suggests that just as new wine requires new wineskins to contain and preserve it, new teachings require new frameworks and understandings.

Theological Significance

The theological significance of the parable lies in its call for renewal and flexibility in religious practice. It has been interpreted as a justification for the establishment of the Christian Church as separate from Judaism, emphasizing the need for a new covenant to accommodate the teachings of Jesus. The parable is often cited in discussions about religious reform and the necessity of adapting religious practices to meet contemporary needs.

Cultural Impact

The phrase "new wine into old wineskins" has transcended its biblical origins to become a common expression used to describe the futility of trying to fit new ideas or methods into old frameworks that are unable to support them. It is frequently referenced in discussions about innovation, change management, and the challenges of introducing new technologies or practices into established industries or organizations.

See Also

• Parables of Jesus
• Christianity
• Gospel of Matthew
• Gospel of Mark
• Gospel of Luke