Luke 5:39

No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.

Luke 5:39 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to Jesus’ reply when the Pharisees and the disciples of John ask why His disciples do not fast as they do. In answer, Jesus uses the metaphors of an old garment, new cloth, old wineskins, and new wine to illustrate the difference between the old and the new. The saying about old wine follows the parable of the wineskins and explains why many found His teaching difficult to accept.

Meaning

The phrase “no man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new” points to a common human preference for the familiar. People who have become accustomed to old ways, teachings, and traditions find it hard to embrace the newness and fullness of the Gospel that Jesus offers. Jesus adds, “for he saith, The old is better,” highlighting the resistance and preference for the familiar. This statement reflects how the Pharisees and John’s followers clung to their traditional ways, considering them better and more righteous, while Jesus presents a new covenant that surpasses the old covenant.

The verse does not teach that the old is inherently better; it observes a natural human tendency. That tendency can hinder receptivity to God’s fresh work. The old wine represents the established religious system and traditions, which were good in their time, but the new wine represents the new covenant and the kingdom of God inaugurated by Jesus. The old covenant, with its laws and rituals, pointed toward the coming of Christ, whereas the new covenant, characterized by grace, forgiveness, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, provides a deeper and more intimate relationship with God.

Biblical connections

Jesus’ ministry inaugurated a new era of salvation and relationship with God. The old covenant was not worthless; it was preparation for the new. The saying is a gentle rebuke to those who were critical of Jesus’ association with sinners and His departure from traditional fasting practices. It challenges readers to examine their own hearts for resistance to God’s leading when it comes in unfamiliar forms.

Application

This teaching challenges us to examine our own lives and attitudes. Are we holding on to old ways, traditions, or mindsets that hinder us from fully embracing the newness and richness of God’s work in our lives? We are called to be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit and willing to let go of anything that impedes our growth and relationship with God. The Gospel is not merely adherence to rules and traditions but a vibrant, transformative relationship with Jesus Christ.

Reflection

Luke 5:39 uses the metaphor of old wine and new wine to highlight the challenge of embracing the newness of the Gospel message. It emphasizes the superiority of the new covenant Jesus brings and encourages us to remain open to the work of the Holy Spirit, embracing the fullness of God’s truth and grace. The saying also has a note of patience: Jesus does not force the new wine on those who are not ready, but He presents it and lets it speak for itself. It is an invitation to receive the new wine of the kingdom with joy and gratitude.