What does Matthew 9:17 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 9:17 contains a metaphor used by Jesus Christ to illustrate the incompatibility between his new teachings and the traditional Jewish laws and customs of the time.

In the verse, "new wine" represents new teachings and "old bottles" (or "wineskins" in some translations) symbolize the established ways or rigid structures that cannot contain the new.

During Biblical times, wine was stored in goat skins.

As new wine ferments, it expands.

A new skin has the elasticity to stretch and accommodate the pressure from the fermenting wine, while an old, already-stretched skin would burst.

Thus, the old systems and religious traditions would not be able to withstand the expansive nature of Jesus's new doctrines. On a deeper level, the verse encourages openness to change and the embrace of new ideas that rejuvenate spiritual life.

Historical Context

This teaching occurs in a context where Jesus is responding to questions about fasting.

His disciples did not fast as did the disciples of John the Baptist or the Pharisees.

Matthew 9:17 is part of Jesus' explanation as to why His disciples did not engage in the old practices.

The historical setting is 1st century Palestine, a time of deep religious tradition among the Jewish people.

These traditions were embedded within the structure of Jewish society, and any new teaching presented a significant challenge to the status quo.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse reveals the transformative nature of Jesus’ ministry.

It suggests that the new covenant, represented by Jesus' teachings, is not a mere amendment to the old ways, but a complete renewal that requires a fresh vessel. Different Christian denominations may interpret this teaching in various ways.

Some may see it as a justification for the new practices established by Jesus compared to Old Testament laws; others may consider it an endorsement for ongoing reformation and renewal within the Christian faith.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Matthew 9:17 can be understood as a call for flexibility and adaptability in one's spiritual life.

It encourages believers to be open to new learnings and experiences that can lead to spiritual growth.

In daily life, this may translate to being open-minded about new methods of worship, different interpretations of scripture, or alternative ways of serving and loving others.

Cross-References

• Luke 5:37-39: "And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish."
• Mark 2:22: "And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles."
• Jeremiah 31:31: "Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:"

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of this verse include:

• "New wine" (νέος οἶνος, neos oinos): 'New' signifies 'recent' or 'unworn,' and 'wine' refers to the fermented juice of grapes.

This wine has a capacity to expand as it ferments.

• "Bottles" (ἀσκούς, askous): Refers to wineskins or containers made of animal hides used for storing and transporting liquids, especially wine.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The metaphor of putting new wine into old wineskins was a culturally relevant comparison for Jesus' audience, as it was part of their everyday life.

Other ancient cultures also used similar containers for liquids, which could include skins or earthenware vessels.

Religiously, this theme of old and new is found in various traditions, often symbolizing the need for renewal and the rejection of outdated structures, whether in personal spirituality, societal laws, or religious ceremonies.

Scientific Perspectives

The process of fermentation which causes the wine to expand is explained by the production of carbon dioxide as yeast converts sugar into alcohol.

As carbon dioxide builds up, pressure increases.

Modern science correlates with the ancient observation, confirming why new, more elastic wineskins are necessary to hold fermenting wine, as old skins lack the necessary elasticity.

commentaries

Commentaries on Matthew 9:17 provide various insights into this verse:

• Some suggest that Jesus used this parable to indicate that his teachings could not be confined to the structures of Pharisaic Judaism.
• Others interpret it as an allegory for the transition from the Old to the New Covenant, with a focus on the internal and spiritual rather than external rituals.
• There is also an interpretation that sees Jesus promoting the renewal of religious traditions in the face of new insights and revelations, a theme that some modern theologians connect to the need for continual reform within the Church.