New cloth on old coat, new wine in old wineskins

Throughout history there have been significant events that have truly defined a generation—the world wars, moon landing, civil rights movement, the end of the Cold War, 9/11, the tech revolution and the global pandemic more recently. But nothing has truly changed the world like the coming of Jesus Christ. Whether people know it and believe it or not, Jesus’ coming truly changes everything, for everyone.

In our passage this weekend Jesus challenges the preconceived notions of those who came to confront him on the issue of fasting, or lack thereof. In it we see him explode the little boxes that they tried to put him in, declaring powerfully that his message and ministry are unique and truly unlike anything else. This has massive implications for us as we consider our lives today and what we, like those who challenged Jesus, might be holding onto to our own detriment. Jesus has brought about his new way to bring joy, purpose and peace…will you fully surrender to him and the good thing he wants to do in your life?

It’s been a great start to our summer preaching series. So grateful to Julian and Pastor Nathan for their faithful proclamation of the Word! For those who are interested, here’s where we’re headed for the rest of the series:

Series: Simple Stories: How the parables of Jesus change everything
Jordan Coros
Message: 3 – New cloth on old coat, new wine in old wineskins
Harvest Bible Chapel
Text: Matthew 9:14-17
July 7, 2024

Jesus’ coming changes everything, so I can…

…live with joy now and forevermore. (v. 14-15)

Matthew 28:19–20

2 Corinthians 6:10

What the world needs from the church – from us – is our indomitable joy in Jesus in the midst of suffering and sorrow.
John Piper

…leave behind my old loyalties. (v. 16-17a)

Matthew 5:17

Why do Christians fast?
https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/why-do-christians-fast

Fasting for beginners
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/fasting-for-beginners

…cling to him to preserve me. (v. 17b)

Remember, sinner, it is not thy hold of Christ that saves thee – it is Christ; it is not thy joy in Christ that saves thee – It is Christ; it is not even thy faith in Christ, though that is the instrument – it is Christ’s blood and merits.
Charles Spurgeon