Matthew 9:18

"Neither do people put new wine into old wineskins, or else the skins would burst, and the wine be spilled, and the skins ruined. No, they put new wine into fresh wineskins, and both are preserved.”"

Key Reflection

In Matthew 9:18, Jesus uses a vivid agricultural analogy to convey an important principle about change and adaptation. The saying likens the newness of God’s teachings or miracles (new wine) to traditional practices or established ways of life (old wineskins). By suggesting that new wine should be placed in fresh skins, Jesus implies that old methods cannot contain or fully appreciate the novelty and power of his message without breaking down or being rendered ineffective. This analogy underscores the necessity of openness to change and the transformative nature of God’s work in people's lives.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verses 18-26. The account contained in these verses is also recorded, with some additional circumstances, in Mr 5:22-43; Lu 8:41-56. Verse 18. There came a certain ruler. Mark and Luke say that his name was Jairus, and that he was a ruler of the synagogue; that is, one of the elders to whom was committed the care of the synagogue. See Barnes "Mt 4:23". And worshipped him. That is, fell down before him, or expressed his respect for him by a token of profound regard. See Barnes "Mt 2:2". My daughter is even now dead. Luke says that this was his only daughter, and that she was twelve years of age.

Related Verses

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