The answer is: It will burst the bottles

Luke 5:37

There's something quite intriguing about this piece of wisdom from Jesus! When He talks about not putting new wine into old bottles, He's using a simple yet profound image that links us to the world of everyday life in His time. Now, let's geek out for a moment on why this matters, beyond just keeping grape juice safe.

Picture an old leather wineskin—over time, leather gets stiff and brittle. When you add that fizzy, bubbly, fermentation-savvy new wine, it expands as it emits gases. Old skins can’t stretch much more before they give—a dramatic burst! In this parable, the "bottles" represent old ways of thinking or tradition, while "new wine" symbolizes the fresh, transformative teachings Jesus brings.

This analogy invites us to rethink and refresh our perspectives. It calls for a readiness to embrace new ideas and change—because spiritual evolution and growth are like fine wine, best enjoyed when they are unbridled and free.

Here’s an interesting tidbit: this illustration runs deeper than just liquids. Similar parables are sprinkled throughout the Gospels, including mentions concerning the newness of ethical living and meanings—as seen famous themes about love replacing old laws. This theme illustrates a shift from rigid confines (like those old bottles) to a flexible, vibrant faith better equipped to embrace the fullness of life’s potential and relationships. So let’s keep our views spacious and alive, always ready for that new wine! Cheers, neighbors! 🍷