Dig Deeper
Jesus’ parable new wine in old wineskins is found
in Matthew 9:16-17; Mark 2:21-22; and Luke 5:36-39. He tells this parable in
response to a question about fasting, “Why do John’s disciples and the
disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” (Mark 2:18).
Jesus was not opposed to the spiritual discipline
of fasting where one instead of eating spends mealtime in prayer and fellowship
with God. Fasting can be for one meal, a day or for many days. Jesus Himself
fasted for forty days (Matthew 4:2) and when asked by his disciples as to why
they were unable to help a boy with an unclean spirit replied, “"This kind
can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting” (Mark 9:29 HCSB). Jesus is
simply stating that the time for His disciples to fast would be after He “is
taken away” (Luke 5:35).
Jesus told the parable of new wine in old
wineskins to contrast the old and new covenants. What do the following
Scriptures reveal about these covenants?
Old Covenant
Deuteronomy 28:1-68--
Joshua 1:2-9--
New Covenant
Jeremiah 31:31-34--
Hebrews 8:8-13; 9:15--
Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20; 1 Corinthians 11:25--
Application
Consider setting aside time this week to fast and
pray (whether for a meal or day), simply to worship God and enjoy your
relationship with Christ. Use this time to meditate on a favorite Psalm or
other Scripture asking the Holy Spirit to deepen your walk with Christ.
Memorize This
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives
in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who
loved me and gave himself for me. NIV
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