The metaphors in the two parables were drawn from contemporary culture.[3] New cloth had not yet shrunk, so that using new cloth to patch older clothing would result in a tear as it began to shrink.[4] Similarly, old wineskins had been stretched to the limit [4] or become brittle[3] as wine had fermented inside them; using them again therefore risked bursting them.[4]
The interpretation favored by John Calvin does not suffer from the inconsistencies and the disconnectedness of the interpretations listed above. In his Commentary on Matthew, Mark, and Luke Calvin states that the old wineskins and the old garment represent Jesus' disciples, and the new wine and unshrunk cloth represent the practice of fasting twice a week. Fasting this way would be burdensome to the new disciples, and would be more than they could bear.
My closing prayer is that the sweet wine of the Spirit would pour so mightily that the wineskins of man's making-which have obscured the Headship of Jesus and disarmed the believing priesthood-would burst beyond recovery! I pray that God would raise up countless local expressions of dynamic spiritual life all across the globe. Expressions that live simply and serve sacrificially for the realization of His eternal purpose. May you be counted faithful to be a part of this passing parade!
Botas are wineskins that are an ancient way to transport wine and are still used today all over Spain. Botas were used by shepherds and travelers in bygone days, but today youf’re likely to see them worn at festivals, bullfights and soccer matches. Traditional, high quality botas are made in small artisan workshops from cured, hand-sewn skins. The interior is coated with pine pitch for water-proofing. They are normally cut in a teardrop or kidney shape. The end has a small hole to squeeze the wine through and a screw-on top attached to a short cord, so it is not lost during merrymaking! Botas also come with a longer cord so you can sling them over your shoulder and keep your hands free.
