Podcast episodes

S4E7: The Parable of the Wineskins


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In this episode we discuss the parable of the wineskins (and the patched garment) from Matthew 9, Mark 2, and Luke 5. Contrary to the popular interpretation of a radical redefinition and subversion of Jewish apocalyptic eschatology, this parable communicates the simple principle of dysfunctionality or maladaptation. You cannot force Jesus’ disciples to fast while the Messiah is with them. It does not work. But when he is “taken away” (cf. Isa 53:8 LXX), they will fast. Through this parable, Jesus (and the Gospel authors) sought to establish the discipline of fasting in the early church.

Show notes

  • Fasting and Jewish apocalypticism – Matthew 9:14-15; Isaiah 53:7-8 LXX (4:03)
  • The common supersessionist approach – Origen, Blomberg, and Wright (10:09)
  • The purpose of the parable: dysfunctionality and maladaptation – Joshua 9:12-13 (24:18)
  • Other parables that simply teach a principle – Luke 10:27, 29; Luke 12:15; Luke 11:8 (29:48)
  • How should we understand this parable if there is no radical redefinition of Jewish eschatology? (34:45)