New Wine into New Wineskins

Matthew 9:14-17

Key verse 9:17b

“No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.”

Read verses 14-15.  What did John’s disciples ask Jesus?  Why did John’s disciples and the Pharisees fast?  Why didn’t Jesus’ disciples fast?  

Look at verse 15 again.  Why does Jesus call himself the “bridegroom”?  Who is Jesus’ bride?  How were the disciples like the guest of the bridegroom?  What should their attitude be like?

Read verse 16-17.  Why not sew a patch of un-shrunk cloth on an old garment?  Why not pour new wine into old wineskins?  

Look at verses 17 again.  What does wine symbolize in the Bible (John 2:2-4)?  What did Jesus mean by “new” wine and “new” wineskins (Ezekiel 36:26)?  How can we be like new wineskins (Mark 1:27; Acts 2:38)?