The Radical Call to Discipleship - Aug. 25th, 2024

Luke 5:27–39 AV 1873

27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me. 28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him. 29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them. 30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? 31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. 32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. 33 And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink? 34 And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? 35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days. 36 And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old. 37 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38 But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. 39 No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.

Comprehensive Exegetical Report: Luke 5:27-39

Introduction

This comprehensive exegetical report on Luke 5:27-39 integrates historical-cultural, lexical-syntactical, theological, literary, and application analyses to provide a holistic understanding of the passage. The passage describes the calling of Levi (Matthew), Jesus' subsequent banquet with tax collectors and sinners, and His teachings on fasting and the new covenant. Through this narrative, Luke presents key themes of inclusivity, transformation, and the incompatibility of the new covenant with old religious structures. The goal of this report is to unify these insights into a cohesive study that underscores the transformative power of Jesus' ministry.

I. Historical-Cultural Contextual Analysis

A. General Historical and Cultural Milieu

Historical Circumstances:

Luke 5:27-39 is set in the context of Jesus' ministry in Galilee, a period marked by His growing popularity among common people and increasing opposition from religious leaders. The passage focuses on the calling of Levi, a tax collector, a figure despised in Jewish society due to his association with Roman authorities and reputation for corruption. Jesus’ decision to dine with Levi and other tax collectors challenged social norms and religious boundaries, signaling the inclusivity of His mission.

Cultural Norms:

In first-century Jewish society, tax collectors were considered traitors and sinners. Their collaboration with the Roman Empire made them socially ostracized and ritually unclean. The Pharisees, representing the religious elite, criticized Jesus for dining with such individuals, as sharing a meal implied acceptance and fellowship. Jesus' actions defied established norms by extending grace and acceptance to those marginalized by society.

Spiritual Disposition of Audience:

The Jewish audience, deeply influenced by religious expectations of purity and separation from sinners, would have been shocked by Jesus’ actions. The Pharisees emphasized strict adherence to the Law, including practices like fasting and ritual purity, which they believed marked one's righteousness. Jesus’ association with tax collectors and sinners challenged their understanding of holiness and the means to attain righteousness before God.

B. Author's Purpose

Explicit Statements/Phrases:

Jesus explicitly states that His mission is to call sinners, not the righteous, to repentance. This highlights the inclusivity of the gospel and the focus on reaching those spiritually marginalized.

Parenetic/Hortatory Sections:

The parables of the new garment and new wine (vv. 36-39) warn against mixing the new reality of the Kingdom of God with old religious structures. These parables emphasize that the new covenant Jesus brings cannot be confined within the old paradigms of Jewish ritualism and legalism.

Silences and Emphases:

The text is silent on defending the old ways of Judaism, placing emphasis instead on the joy and celebration that accompany Jesus’ presence. This celebration contrasts with the ascetic practices of fasting upheld by the Pharisees and John’s disciples, which are portrayed as out of place in the context of Jesus’ ministry.

II. Lexical-Syntactical Analysis

A. Detailed Lexical Analysis

Luke 5:27-28:

Key terms like "ἐξῆλθεν" (he went out) and "Ἀκολούθει" (Follow me) underscore the deliberate and immediate actions of Jesus and Levi, highlighting Levi's complete abandonment of his previous life to follow Jesus.

Luke 5:29-30:

The verbs used in these verses reflect the ongoing nature of the Pharisees' grumbling and the formal setting of the banquet. Words like "δοχὴν μεγάλην" (a great banquet) emphasize the scale of Levi's hospitality and the social tension it created.

Luke 5:31-32:

The metaphor of a physician ("ἰατροῦ") for Jesus underscores His role as a healer of souls, particularly for those who recognize their need for spiritual healing, rather than those who consider themselves righteous.

Luke 5:33-39:

The terms used in Jesus' parables, such as "παράβωλον" (parable) and "ῥήξει" (it will tear), highlight the newness and radical change that Jesus' ministry introduces, which cannot be contained within old religious frameworks.

B. Syntactical Analysis

The passage employs a combination of narrative and dialogue, transitioning from the straightforward account of Levi's calling to a more complex discussion involving metaphorical language. The syntax of the parables emphasizes the incompatibility of old and new practices, underlining the theme of transformation introduced by Jesus.

C. Theological Implications

The lexical and syntactical elements in this passage highlight the immediacy and radical nature of Jesus' call to discipleship and the transformative newness of His message. The passage challenges established religious norms, emphasizing themes of repentance, renewal, and the transformative power of Jesus' ministry.

III. Literary Analysis

A. Author's Intent and Literary Form

Call Narrative and Controversy Story:

Luke 5:27-39 combines elements of a call narrative (Jesus' call to Levi) and a controversy story (the Pharisees' objections to Jesus dining with sinners). This structure underscores Jesus' authority and the radical nature of His ministry, particularly His willingness to reach out to those marginalized by Jewish religious leaders.

Literary Devices:

Luke employs various literary devices, including metaphor, parable, and allegory, to convey the theological themes of repentance, grace, and the new covenant. The metaphors of new wine in old wineskins and the new patch on an old garment illustrate the futility of trying to merge the new with the old, emphasizing the need for complete transformation rather than mere adaptation.

B. Deductive Analysis

The passage uses literary forms such as call narratives, controversy stories, and parables to create a cohesive narrative that emphasizes the transformative and inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry. This literary analysis reveals how Luke uses these forms to communicate profound theological truths about the new covenant and the call to discipleship.

IV. Theological Analysis

A. Preunderstandings of God's Relationship with Humanity

God's relationship with humanity is understood within the framework of His sovereign plan of redemption, which is progressively revealed throughout Scripture. This relationship is characterized by God's covenantal faithfulness, grace, and mercy. Jesus' actions in Luke 5:27-39 must be interpreted within this overarching plan, as He fulfills the Law and inaugurates the New Covenant.

B. Implications for the Passage

Jesus' calling of Levi and His association with sinners demonstrate God's initiative in grace, challenging Jewish concepts of purity and separation. The passage illustrates the breaking of old boundaries and the ushering in of a new era where grace supersedes the Law, embodying the continuity and fulfillment of God's redemptive promises from the Old Testament.

C. Theological Knowledge of the Original Audience

The original Jewish audience would have been influenced by the Mosaic Law, viewing tax collectors and sinners as outcasts unworthy of fellowship with the righteous. Jesus' actions subverted these traditional expectations, presenting a radical redefinition of righteousness and holiness.

D. Original Meaning for Recipients

To the original audience, Jesus’ ministry represented a new phase in God's redemptive plan, characterized by grace, inclusivity, and a departure from the old religious structures. The parables of the new garment and new wine would have communicated the idea that Jesus' ministry could not be confined within the old paradigms of Jewish law and custom.

E. Doctrinal Themes and Implications

The passage emphasizes key Christian doctrines, such as grace and redemption, the inauguration of the New Covenant, and the mission of the Church to reach out to the marginalized. These themes challenge believers to embrace the transformative power of Jesus' message and to extend grace to all, regardless of their social or moral status.

V. Comparative and Application Analysis

A. Comparative Analysis

Commentators such as Joel B. Green, Luke Timothy Johnson, and David Garland agree on the radical inclusivity of Jesus' ministry, emphasizing different aspects such as the socio-economic implications of Levi's calling, the eschatological significance of the new covenant, and the communal nature of Jesus' fellowship with sinners. This comparative analysis highlights the breadth of interpretation regarding Jesus' actions and teachings in this passage.

B. Modification and Expansion

The analogy of new wine in old wineskins is expanded to emphasize the inevitable transformation required by the new covenant. The discussion on fasting is linked to eschatological hope, balancing present joy with the anticipation of the Kingdom's fullness. This expansion underscores the ongoing relevance of Jesus' teachings for contemporary Christian practice.

C. Principlizing

The passage teaches several key principles:

Inclusivity and Grace: Jesus' association with sinners highlights the inclusive nature of the gospel, calling believers to extend grace to all.

Transformation and Newness: The new covenant requires a transformation of old practices and a commitment to living in ways that reflect the values of the Kingdom of God.

Eschatological Expectation: The discussion on fasting points to the tension between the "already" and the "not yet" of the Kingdom, reminding believers to live with both present joy and future hope.

D. Transcultural Transmission

The principles of inclusivity, transformation, and eschatological expectation are transcultural, rooted in the character of God and the nature of the gospel. These principles remain relevant across all cultures and eras, challenging believers to reflect the values of the Kingdom in their lives and communities.

Conclusion

This exegesis of Luke 5:27-39 reveals the richness of the passage's historical, lexical, theological, and literary dimensions. The narrative of Levi's call, the banquet with sinners, and the teachings on fasting and the new covenant illustrate Jesus' radical challenge to established religious norms and His invitation to a transformative discipleship. By integrating these various analyses, the report emphasizes the central proposition that Jesus' ministry, exemplified in this passage, calls believers to embrace the new life offered by Christ, which cannot be confined within the old structures of the Mosaic Law or Pharisaic practices. This passage continues to challenge and inspire contemporary believers to live out the inclusive and transformative message of the gospel in their own contexts.

Expanded Exegetical Outline of Luke 5:27-39

I. The Call of Levi (5:27-28)

A. Jesus Initiates the Call (5:27)

Following Previous Events:

After Jesus had healed the paralytic man and confronted the unbelief of the religious leaders, He continued His ministry in Galilee. This phrase transitions from Jesus' previous interactions with the Pharisees, setting the stage for another significant encounter that challenges societal norms.

Jesus Sees Levi:

As Jesus moves through the area, He notices Levi, a tax collector, who was sitting at his post collecting taxes. This detail is crucial because tax collectors were despised by the Jewish people for their association with the Roman authorities and their often corrupt practices. Levi's occupation underscores his marginalized status in society.

The Invitation to Follow:

Despite Levi's social standing, Jesus extends to him the same invitation He had previously given to Simon Peter: "Follow Me." This call is significant because it reflects Jesus' willingness to reach out to those considered outcasts, highlighting the inclusivity of His mission. It also indicates a call to discipleship that requires a complete life change.

B. Levi’s Response to the Call (5:28)

Immediate Abandonment of His Past Life:

Levi responds by immediately leaving behind everything—his job, his wealth, and his former way of life. This response emphasizes the total commitment required to follow Jesus. Levi’s willingness to abandon his lucrative position as a tax collector signifies a profound transformation, indicating that following Jesus necessitates the forsaking of one's former identity and security.

Rising to Follow Jesus:

Levi not only leaves everything behind but also physically rises and follows Jesus. This action symbolizes his acceptance of the call to discipleship, illustrating that true following involves both a decisive break from the past and an active pursuit of the new path Jesus offers.

II. The Banquet at Levi’s House (5:29-32)

A. Levi Hosts a Banquet in Honor of Jesus (5:29)

The Setting of the Banquet:

Levi, in response to his newfound discipleship, hosts a large banquet at his house. This feast is significant as it marks a public display of his new allegiance to Jesus. The banquet serves as both a celebration of Levi’s new life and an opportunity to bring others, especially his fellow tax collectors and social outcasts, into contact with Jesus.

A Gathering of Tax Collectors and Others:

The guests at Levi’s banquet include a large number of tax collectors and others considered sinners by Jewish society. This detail highlights the type of people Jesus is willing to associate with, reinforcing the theme of inclusivity and grace. It also sets the stage for the upcoming controversy with the Pharisees, who would view such associations as scandalous.

B. The Pharisees' Objection (5:30)

The Pharisees’ Grumbling:

Observing the banquet, the Pharisees and their scribes begin to grumble to Jesus’ disciples, questioning why Jesus would eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners. Their objection reveals their strict adherence to purity laws and their disdain for those they considered ritually unclean. The Pharisees' question reflects a deeper conflict between Jesus’ mission and the established religious norms.

The Challenge to Social and Religious Norms:

The Pharisees' question underscores the tension between their understanding of righteousness—one that demands separation from sinners—and Jesus’ approach, which involves reaching out to those on the margins of society. This confrontation highlights the growing opposition to Jesus' ministry from the religious authorities.

C. Jesus' Response to the Pharisees (5:31-32)

The Metaphor of the Physician:

Jesus responds with a metaphor, comparing Himself to a physician who comes to heal the sick, not those who are well. This metaphor directly addresses the Pharisees’ misunderstanding of His mission. By likening sinners to those who are sick, Jesus emphasizes that His purpose is to bring spiritual healing to those who recognize their need for it.

The Call to Repentance:

Jesus clarifies that His mission is not to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance. This statement is pivotal because it redefines who is considered "righteous" and who is in need of repentance. Jesus’ response challenges the Pharisees’ self-perception and underscores the inclusivity of the gospel, which is extended to all, regardless of their past.

III. The Question About Fasting (5:33-35)

A. The Inquiry About Fasting (5:33)

The Disciples of John and the Pharisees:

The Pharisees and others question Jesus about why His disciples do not fast like the disciples of John and the Pharisees. This question reflects the established religious practices of the time, where fasting was a common expression of piety and devotion. The question implies a criticism of Jesus’ disciples for not adhering to these traditional practices.

The Contrast Between Jesus' Disciples and Others:

The comparison highlights a perceived inconsistency in the behavior of Jesus’ disciples, suggesting that they do not meet the religious standards expected by the Pharisees. This sets the stage for Jesus to explain the deeper significance of His presence and the new era it inaugurates.

B. Jesus’ Response with the Bridegroom Metaphor (5:34-35)

The Bridegroom’s Presence:

Jesus responds by using the metaphor of a wedding feast, where the guests do not fast while the bridegroom is present. This metaphor illustrates the joy and celebration associated with Jesus' presence, suggesting that fasting—a sign of mourning or penitence—is inappropriate during such a time. The bridegroom represents Jesus, and His presence signifies the inauguration of the Kingdom of God.

The Future Absence of the Bridegroom:

Jesus adds that the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken away, and then His disciples will fast. This reference to His future departure (likely alluding to His crucifixion) introduces the concept of the "already" and "not yet" aspect of the Kingdom. While Jesus is present, it is a time for celebration; however, His future absence will be marked by a return to fasting, reflecting the ongoing anticipation of the full realization of the Kingdom.

IV. The Parable of the New and Old (5:36-39)

A. Introduction to the Parable (5:36)

The Need for a New Paradigm:

Jesus introduces a parable to explain the incompatibility of the new covenant with the old religious structures. This parable is meant to illustrate the futility of trying to merge the new reality of the Kingdom of God with the old practices rooted in the Mosaic Law and Pharisaic traditions.

B. The Incompatibility of Old and New Garments (5:36)

The Unfit Patch:

Jesus uses the analogy of tearing a piece from a new garment to patch an old one. He explains that doing so would ruin both garments, as the new piece would not match the old. This symbolizes the incompatibility between Jesus’ new teachings and the old religious structures. Attempting to blend the two would result in the destruction of both, highlighting the necessity of embracing the new covenant fully rather than trying to fit it into the old frameworks.

C. The Incompatibility of New Wine and Old Wineskins (5:37-38)

The Risk of Rupture:

Jesus continues with the analogy of pouring new wine into old wineskins. He explains that the new wine would burst the old wineskins, causing both the wine and the skins to be ruined. This reinforces the message that the new life and teachings Jesus brings cannot be contained within the rigid structures of the old covenant. The new wine represents the transformative power of the gospel, which requires new forms of expression—new "wineskins"—to hold it.

The Necessity of New Wineskins:

Jesus concludes that new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. This statement emphasizes the need for new structures, practices, and ways of thinking that can accommodate the radical newness of the Kingdom of God. The old wineskins, representing the established religious practices, are insufficient to contain the dynamic and expansive nature of the new covenant.

D. The Preference for the Old (5:39)

Resistance to Change:

Jesus observes that no one who has drunk old wine immediately desires the new, for they say, "The old is good." This final statement reflects the resistance to change that Jesus encountered, particularly from the religious leaders who were deeply entrenched in their traditions. It symbolizes the challenge of embracing the new covenant, as many preferred the familiar comfort of the old ways despite the inadequacies of those practices in light of the new reality Jesus was introducing.

Sermon Brief: The Radical Call to Discipleship

Formal Elements

Sermon Title: The Radical Call to Discipleship: Embracing the New Life in Christ

Scripture Text: Luke 5:27-39 (KJV)

Central Idea of the Text (CIT): Jesus calls sinners to repentance and discipleship, challenging societal and religious norms by introducing a transformative new covenant that cannot be confined within the old structures of the Law.

Sermonic Proposition: Jesus’ call to discipleship demands a complete break from the past, a willingness to embrace the new life He offers, and a readiness to follow Him despite societal and religious opposition.

Sermonic Purpose (Major and Specific Objective):

Major Objective: To encourage believers to understand the radical nature of Jesus’ call to discipleship and the transformative power of the gospel.

Specific Objective: To challenge the congregation to examine their lives, forsake old patterns that are incompatible with the new life in Christ, and fully embrace the mission of reaching out to those marginalized by society.

Theme: The Transformative Power of the Gospel

Doctrine: Grace and Redemption

Need: Believers need to recognize and respond to the radical nature of Jesus' call to discipleship by forsaking old ways and embracing the new life He offers.

Image: The image of new wine in old wineskins, symbolizing the incompatibility of the new life in Christ with old religious structures and ways of thinking.

Mission: To live out the inclusivity and transformative power of the gospel by reaching out to those marginalized by society and inviting them to experience the new life in Christ.

Optional Inductive Pattern: Move from the specific example of Levi’s call to the broader implications of Jesus’ teachings for the Church and individual believers today.

Informal Elements

Introduction:

We are living in a time where change is often met with resistance. People hold onto the familiar, the comfortable, the old ways, even when something better is being offered. This was the same in Jesus’ time. In Luke 5:27-39, we find Jesus calling a tax collector named Levi, challenging societal and religious norms, and introducing a transformative new covenant that could not be contained within the old structures of the Law. Today, we will explore this passage, examining how Jesus’ radical call to discipleship demands a complete break from the past and a readiness to embrace the new life He offers.

I. The Call of Levi (Luke 5:27-28)

A. Jesus Initiates the Call (Luke 5:27)

Luke 5:27 AV 1873

27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.

Following Previous Events

After healing the paralytic man and confronting the unbelief of the religious leaders, Jesus continues His ministry in Galilee. This sets the stage for a significant encounter with Levi, a tax collector. The phrase "After these things" indicates a transition from one challenge to another, preparing the reader for the radical nature of what is about to occur.

1. Jesus Sees Levi

As Jesus moves through the area, He sees Levi, a tax collector sitting at his post. Tax collectors were despised by the Jewish people for their collaboration with Roman authorities and their often corrupt practices. This context highlights the shock value of what Jesus is about to do.

2. The Invitation to Follow

Despite Levi’s social standing as a sinner and outcast, Jesus extends the same invitation He had given to Simon Peter: "Follow Me." This call signifies Jesus’ mission to reach those on the margins of society, offering them a new path, a new life, and a new identity as His disciples.

B. Levi’s Response to the Call (Luke 5:28)

Luke 5:28 AV 1873

28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him.

1. Immediate Abandonment of His Past Life

Levi responds by immediately leaving everything behind. This act of leaving his job, wealth, and former life underscores the total commitment required to follow Jesus. It represents a decisive break from the past, a willingness to forsake all for the sake of Christ.

2. Rising to Follow Jesus

Levi’s rising and following Jesus is a physical demonstration of his spiritual transformation. It signifies not just an abandonment of his old life but an active pursuit of the new life Jesus offers. This response models the kind of radical discipleship that Jesus calls all His followers to embrace.

II. The Banquet at Levi’s House (Luke 5:29-32)

A. Levi Hosts a Banquet in Honor of Jesus (Luke 5:29)

Luke 5:29 AV 1873

29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.

1. The Setting of the Banquet

In response to his call, Levi hosts a large banquet at his house in honor of Jesus. This banquet is significant as it publicly displays Levi’s new allegiance and celebrates his new life in Christ. The gathering symbolizes the joy and fellowship that comes with following Jesus, even among those who are marginalized.

2. A Gathering of Tax Collectors and Others

The banquet is attended by a large number of tax collectors and others considered sinners by society. This detail underscores the inclusivity of Jesus’ ministry and His willingness to associate with those whom society rejects. It also sets the stage for the conflict with the Pharisees, who viewed such associations as scandalous.

B. The Pharisees' Objection (Luke 5:30)

Luke 5:30 AV 1873

30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?

1. The Pharisees’ Grumbling

The Pharisees and their scribes grumble to Jesus’ disciples, questioning why He would eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners. Their objection reflects their strict adherence to purity laws and their belief in separation from those considered unclean. This confrontation reveals the deep-seated resistance to the inclusivity and grace that Jesus embodies.

2. The Challenge to Social and Religious Norms

The Pharisees’ question highlights the tension between their understanding of righteousness, which demanded separation from sinners, and Jesus’ approach, which involved reaching out to the marginalized. This moment in the narrative marks a significant challenge to the established religious order.

C. Jesus' Response to the Pharisees (Luke 5:31-32)

Luke 5:31–32 AV 1873

31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. 32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

1. The Metaphor of the Physician

Jesus responds with a metaphor, likening Himself to a physician who comes to heal the sick, not those who are well. This metaphor cuts to the heart of His mission: He is here to bring spiritual healing to those who recognize their need for it, not to affirm those who believe they are already righteous.

2. The Call to Repentance

Jesus clarifies that He has come to call not the righteous, but sinners to repentance. This statement is revolutionary because it redefines who is in need of God’s grace. It challenges the Pharisees’ self-perception and emphasizes that the gospel is for everyone, especially those who are aware of their brokenness and need for redemption.

III. The Question About Fasting (Luke 5:33-35)

A. The Griping Contrastive Inquiry (Luke 5:33)

Luke 5:33 AV 1873

33 And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink?

1. The Disciples of John and the Pharisees

The Pharisees and others question Jesus about why His disciples do not fast like the disciples of John and the Pharisees. Fasting was a traditional expression of piety, and the question implies a critique of Jesus' disciples for not adhering to these practices.

2. The Contrast Between Jesus' Disciples and Others

The comparison highlights a perceived inconsistency in the behavior of Jesus' disciples, suggesting that they do not meet the religious standards of the time. This sets up Jesus’ explanation of the new reality His presence brings.

B. Jesus’ Metaphoric Response: Celebrate the Bridegroom (Luke 5:34-35)

Luke 5:34–35 AV 1873

34 And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? 35 But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.

1. The Bridegroom’s Presence

Jesus responds by using the metaphor of a wedding feast, where guests do not fast while the bridegroom is present. This imagery points to the joy and celebration that come with Jesus’ presence, making fasting inappropriate during this time. The bridegroom represents Jesus, whose presence signals the inauguration of the Kingdom of God.

2. The Future Absence of the Bridegroom

Jesus adds that a time will come when the bridegroom will be taken away, and then His disciples will fast. This statement introduces the "already" and "not yet" tension of the Kingdom. While Jesus is with them, it is a time of joy; His future departure will mark a return to fasting and anticipation of the Kingdom's full realization.

IV. The Parable of the New and Old (Luke 5:36-39)

A. The Incompatibility of Old and New Garments (Luke 5:36)

Luke 5:36 AV 1873

36 And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.

1. The Need for a New Paradigm

Jesus introduces a parable to explain the incompatibility of the new covenant with the old religious structures. This parable serves as a teaching tool to convey the futility of trying to mix the old ways with the new life that Jesus offers.

2. The Unfit Patch

Jesus compares the new covenant to a new garment and the old religious practices to an old garment. Trying to patch the old garment with new cloth would ruin both. This analogy illustrates that the new life in Christ cannot be contained or limited by the old structures of the Law. It requires a complete transformation.

B. The Incompatibility of New Wine and Old Wineskins (Luke 5:37-38)

Luke 5:37–38 AV 1873

37 And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38 But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved.

1. The Risk of Rupture

Jesus continues with the analogy of new wine in old wineskins. The new wine, symbolizing the gospel, would burst the old wineskins, representing the rigid structures of the Law. This teaches that the gospel is dynamic and expansive, requiring new ways of thinking and living that can accommodate its transformative power.

2. The Necessity of New Wineskins

New wine must be placed in fresh wineskins. This emphasizes the need for believers to embrace new forms of discipleship and community that align with the new covenant, rather than clinging to old, inadequate practices.

C. The Preference for the Old (Luke 5:39)

Luke 5:39 AV 1873

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

Resistance to Change

Jesus concludes by noting that those accustomed to old wine do not immediately desire the new, saying, "The old is good." This reflects the resistance Jesus encountered, especially from the religious leaders who were deeply attached to their traditions. It serves as a cautionary note about the challenge of accepting the new life in Christ.

Conclusion:

Jesus’ radical call to discipleship, as illustrated in Luke 5:27-39, challenges us to leave behind the old ways that are incompatible with the new life He offers. Like Levi, we are called to abandon our former lives and follow Jesus wholeheartedly. The gospel is not just an addition to our lives; it is a transformative power that requires new structures, new thinking, and a new commitment to the mission of Christ. As we conclude, let us examine our hearts and lives. Are there old wineskins—old habits, traditions, or mindsets—that we need to let go of? Are we ready to embrace the new wine of the gospel and allow it to transform us completely?

Call to Action:

Today, I challenge you to respond to Jesus’ call as Levi did—by leaving everything behind and following Him. Let us commit to living out the inclusivity and transformative power of the gospel by reaching out to those marginalized by society, inviting them into the new life that Christ offers. Let us be new wineskins, ready to be filled with the new wine of the Kingdom, and let us go forth to extend that invitation to others.

[Four Pages - Visual Overview]

Text: Luke 5:27-39 (KJV)

Theme: The Transformative Power of the Gospel

Doctrine: Grace and Redemption

Need: To recognize and respond to the radical nature of Jesus' call to discipleship by forsaking old ways and embracing the new life He offers.

Image: New wine in old wineskins, symbolizing the incompatibility of the new life in Christ with old religious structures and ways of thinking.

A modern-day equivalent to the image of "new wineskins" could be a smartphone with outdated software. Just as new wine would burst old wineskins, a powerful, innovative app or software update would be incompatible with an outdated phone that can't support it. The new, advanced features require new technology—new "containers"—to function properly, symbolizing the need for new frameworks or mindsets to embrace and fully utilize the transformative power of something new.

Another modern-day equivalent could be pouring fresh, hot coffee into a cracked thermos. Just as new wine would burst old wineskins, pouring hot coffee into a damaged or cracked thermos would cause it to leak or break entirely. The fresh coffee requires a new, sturdy thermos to hold it properly, symbolizing the need for new, unbroken structures or mindsets to fully contain and enjoy something new and revitalizing.

Another modern-day equivalent could be planting a young, healthy tree in contaminated soil. Just as new wine cannot be contained in old wineskins without causing damage, planting a vibrant, young tree in toxic or depleted soil would stunt its growth or kill it. The new tree requires fresh, fertile soil to thrive, symbolizing the need for a new, healthy environment or mindset to nurture and support something new and full of potential.

Here’s another modern-day equivalent: putting fresh ingredients into a rusted, old pot. Just as new wine would burst old wineskins, using fresh, high-quality ingredients in a rusted, deteriorating pot would ruin the meal. The new ingredients need a clean, well-maintained pot to cook properly and yield a delicious result, symbolizing the necessity of having new, appropriate frameworks or mindsets to fully benefit from and preserve something new and valuable.

Mission: To live out the inclusivity and transformative power of the gospel by reaching out to those marginalized by society and inviting them to experience the new life in Christ.

MS: Introduction to the Sermon

We live in a world where change is often resisted. People cling to the familiar, even when something better is offered. But what if the new thing being offered is not just better—it’s transformative? This is the scenario we encounter in our passage today, Luke 5:27-39.

Imagine with me the bustling streets of Galilee, filled with traders, Roman soldiers, and ordinary Jewish citizens going about their daily lives. In the midst of this, there is a man named Levi, a tax collector, sitting at his post, gathering taxes for the Roman Empire. He is despised, considered a traitor by his own people, ostracized from the religious community. Yet, this very man is about to receive a call that will change his life forever.

Luke’s narrative places us right in the heart of Jesus’ ministry, where He is not only performing miracles but also redefining what it means to follow God. The text we will explore today invites us into a moment of radical transformation—a moment where Jesus calls us to leave behind the old and embrace the new life He offers.

This passage speaks to a deep need within each of us: the need to let go of the old, inadequate ways of thinking and living, and to fully embrace the transformative power of the gospel. The image that captures this is that of new wine in old wineskins—a powerful metaphor Jesus uses to illustrate that the new life He brings cannot be contained within the old frameworks.

As we journey through this text, we will uncover the richness of Jesus’ call, the challenge it poses to established norms, and the profound invitation it extends to each of us to live out the inclusivity and transformative power of the gospel. This is not just a call to personal transformation, but also a mission to reach out to those who, like Levi, are marginalized and outcast, and to invite them into the new life that Christ offers.

Jesus’ call to discipleship confronts cultural and religious conventions, compelling us to cast off our old ways and completely commit to His life-changing grace.

Let’s turn our attention now to the Word of God as we begin.

MS Page One: The Trouble in the Text

The sun was probably high in the sky, casting long shadows over the bustling streets of Capernaum. Merchants called out to passersby, peddling their goods, while children played near the marketplace. But there, just off to the side, sat Levi—his gaze fixed, yet distant. The clink of coins landing on his table punctuated the murmurs of disapproval from those who walked by. Tax collectors were not just disliked; they were despised, viewed as traitors and sinners. Levi's presence at the tax booth was a stark reminder to everyone of the burden of Roman rule and the corruption that came with it.

Levi, like all tax collectors, lived on the fringes of society. His job ensured he was an outcast, shunned by the religious elite, cut off from the community. Every coin that passed through his hands carried with it the weight of betrayal—a betrayal not just to his people, but in the eyes of many, to God Himself.

But Levi was no fool. He knew the price he paid for his wealth. Loneliness gnawed at him, even as he counted his riches. The distance between him and the rest of his people was more than just physical; it was spiritual, social, and emotional. He was trapped in a life that offered him everything but acceptance, everything but true joy.

On this day, however, something—or rather, someone—would disturb the usual rhythm of Levi’s day. The air seemed to thicken with anticipation as Jesus, the rabbi who had been performing miracles and teaching with authority, approached. The crowds that usually followed Jesus began to part, whispers of His name filling the space. What would He do? What would He say?

Levi, perhaps sensing the tension, looked up as Jesus drew near. This wasn’t the first time Levi had heard about Jesus. Stories of healings, of a man who claimed to forgive sins, had surely reached his ears. Yet, the last thing Levi expected was what happened next.

Jesus stopped right in front of him. The noise of the market faded into the background as Jesus’ eyes met Levi’s. There was no anger in those eyes, no disdain—only a calm, penetrating gaze that seemed to see right through to the heart.

“Follow me,” Jesus said.

Two simple words, yet they hung in the air like a command that couldn’t be ignored. The crowd, which had been buzzing with curiosity, suddenly fell silent. This was not what they had expected. This was the rabbi who had been healing the sick, preaching repentance, and proclaiming the Kingdom of God. Surely, He wouldn’t associate with a man like Levi—a man whose very presence was a stain on the fabric of their society.

But Jesus didn’t hesitate. He spoke with the same authority that had silenced the demons and calmed the storm. “Follow me,” He repeated, and the weight of those words settled over Levi like a mantle, pressing him to respond.

And here, in this moment, the trouble begins to surface. Jesus, the one who was supposed to uphold the law, the one who was gathering a following of righteous men, had just extended an invitation to a man who was, by all accounts, unworthy. The tension is palpable. This is not how things are supposed to work. Sinners don’t just get to follow a rabbi—especially not this rabbi. The crowd didn’t know what to make of it, and neither, perhaps, did Levi.

This call wasn’t just unexpected; it was scandalous. It upended the social and religious norms of the day, raising questions that no one in the crowd was prepared to answer. What was Jesus doing? Why would He call someone like Levi? And what did this mean for everyone else who had been faithfully following Him?

As Levi rose from his seat at the tax booth, leaving behind his livelihood, his wealth, and his old life, the crowd watched in stunned silence. They didn’t realize it yet, but they were witnessing the beginning of something new—something that would challenge everything they thought they knew about God, about righteousness, and about who was worthy to be called a disciple.

MS Page Two: The Trouble in Our World

Imagine, for a moment, being in Levi’s shoes—or perhaps, we might say, in Levi’s world. A world where your choices have led you down a path that has isolated you from the very community you once belonged to. Perhaps, at first, it was a small compromise—an opportunity to make a little extra, to secure your future. But over time, those choices piled up, and before you knew it, you found yourself on the outside, looking in.

The people you grew up with no longer see you as one of them. Your presence is a reminder of what they despise—betrayal, greed, collaboration with an oppressive system. Every time you step out of your house, you feel the eyes on you, the murmurs behind your back. And even when you’re alone, the silence is heavy with the knowledge that you have become something you never intended to be.

It’s not hard to see ourselves in Levi’s story. Maybe we haven’t collected taxes for Rome, but we know what it’s like to make decisions that separate us from others, to live with the consequences of choices that have led us down paths we never meant to travel. Maybe it’s not society that’s ostracized us, but our own hearts—burdened by guilt, weighed down by shame. We all have those moments, those seasons, where we realize that the life we’ve built is not the life we dreamed of.

We’re surrounded by a world that often measures worth by what we can contribute, what we can achieve. Success is defined by the accumulation of wealth, power, and status. And yet, in the pursuit of these things, we can find ourselves more isolated, more disconnected than ever before. The very systems that promise prosperity can also strip away our humanity, leaving us feeling hollow, empty, and alone.

Like Levi, many of us live in the tension between the life we’re living and the life we long for. We might wear the mask of success, but deep down, we know something is missing. We might be respected in our professional circles, but feel like strangers in our own homes. Or perhaps, like Levi, we’ve been labeled—by others, or even by ourselves—as unworthy, unlovable, irredeemable.

This is the world we live in—a world that often pushes people to the margins, that categorizes and judges, that values the wrong things. A world that tells us that once we’ve made certain choices, there’s no turning back. Once we’ve crossed certain lines, there’s no going home again. It’s a world that, in many ways, is not so different from the world Levi knew.

But here’s the deeper trouble: in this world, where so much emphasis is placed on outward success and social standing, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. We start to believe the lie that our worth is tied to what we do, rather than who we are. And in that belief, we can become trapped—trapped in our roles, our reputations, our mistakes.

The crowd that watched Jesus approach Levi probably felt pretty secure in their judgment of him. After all, they knew what he was—a tax collector, a sinner, a man who had sold out his own people for personal gain. They didn’t need to know anything more. And so, they kept their distance, content in the knowledge that they were on the right side of righteousness.

But what they failed to see—what we so often fail to see—is that in pushing people like Levi to the margins, in defining them by their worst decisions, they were missing out on the possibility of transformation. They were missing out on the reality that even someone like Levi could be called to something greater. They were missing out on grace.

And so, we find ourselves in a world where grace is often in short supply. A world where people are more likely to be labeled than loved, more likely to be judged than embraced. We find ourselves in a world where the very people who most need to hear the words "Follow Me" are the ones who are least likely to believe that those words could be meant for them.

The trouble in our world is that we have become so accustomed to defining ourselves and others by what we see on the surface—by the mistakes, the failures, the outward appearances—that we forget the transformative power of the gospel. We forget that Jesus didn’t come for those who have it all together; He came for those who know they don’t.

As we look at Levi, sitting at his tax booth, we’re reminded that the trouble in our world isn’t just out there in society. It’s in here, in our hearts, in the ways we see ourselves and others. It’s in the ways we’ve allowed our past to define us, in the ways we’ve accepted the labels that others have placed on us, in the ways we’ve distanced ourselves from the very grace that Jesus offers.

But there’s hope. And that hope begins with the realization that the call Jesus extended to Levi is the same call He extends to each of us: "Follow Me." It’s an invitation to leave behind the old ways, the old labels, and to step into a new life defined not by our past, but by His grace.

MS Page Three: The Grace in the Text

The silence that followed Jesus' call to Levi must have been heavy. The crowd watched, their expectations shattered by the simple yet profound command, "Follow Me." But where they saw scandal, Jesus saw something else entirely—He saw an opportunity for grace.

Levi stood at a crossroads. In one direction was everything he had built—his wealth, his position, his security, however tenuous it might have been. In the other direction was uncertainty, a path defined not by the comforts of his current life but by the unknown of following this rabbi who had just disrupted his entire world.

But what did Jesus see? He didn’t see a tax collector defined by his sins. He didn’t see a man irredeemable or beyond the reach of God’s love. Jesus saw a man made in the image of God, a man with the potential to be so much more than the labels placed upon him by society. Jesus saw a disciple.

The grace in this text is almost overwhelming. Here is Levi, a man despised by his own people, living a life that was, by all accounts, at odds with the teachings of the Law. Yet, Jesus doesn’t just pass by him or rebuke him. He invites him. Jesus offers Levi a new identity, one not tied to his past or his profession, but rooted in a relationship with the Son of God.

In that moment, grace broke through the boundaries of social and religious norms. Grace looked beyond Levi’s exterior, beyond his occupation, beyond the judgments of the crowd, and offered him a future he could never have imagined. Jesus didn’t just call Levi to follow; He called him to be transformed. And that’s what grace does—it transforms.

Levi’s response was immediate. He left everything—his tax booth, his money, his old life—and followed Jesus. This wasn’t just a physical act of walking away; it was a spiritual act of surrender. Levi was responding not just to a command, but to an invitation into a new life, a life where grace redefined his identity and purpose.

But the grace in this story doesn’t end with Levi. It extends to the banquet he hosts, where a crowd of tax collectors and sinners gather to dine with Jesus. This meal is a powerful symbol of the inclusivity of God’s grace. Jesus didn’t just extend grace to Levi; He extended it to all those who, like Levi, were on the fringes of society.

At that table, grace was on full display. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a declaration that the Kingdom of God is open to everyone, even those whom society has written off. The grace that called Levi out of his tax booth is the same grace that welcomed his friends to the table.

And what a contrast this was to the expectations of the religious leaders! They believed that righteousness was about separation—separating the clean from the unclean, the righteous from the sinner. But Jesus’ actions turned this idea on its head. Grace, as Jesus demonstrated, isn’t about separation; it’s about inclusion. It’s about inviting those who are far off to draw near. It’s about offering a seat at the table to those who have been left out.

This is the grace of the gospel—a grace that doesn’t just meet us where we are but calls us into something greater. A grace that redefines who we are, not based on our past, but on God’s love and purpose for our lives. It’s the grace that sees beyond the labels and the judgments, the grace that says, "You are not defined by your sins; you are defined by the One who calls you."

In Levi’s story, we see the power of grace to transform lives. A man who was once known as a sinner became a disciple. A man who had been on the outside was brought to the very heart of Jesus’ ministry. This is the grace that calls each of us, the grace that invites us to leave behind the old ways and step into the new life that Jesus offers.

The crowd may have seen a tax collector, but Jesus saw a disciple. The crowd may have seen a sinner, but Jesus saw someone worthy of love, of redemption, of a place in the Kingdom. This is the grace in the text—a grace that breaks down barriers, that redefines identities, and that invites each of us to follow Jesus into a life of transformation.

MS Page Four: The Grace in Our World

The story of Levi didn’t end at that banquet table. It was just the beginning of a journey that would take him far beyond the tax booth, far beyond the life he had known. As Levi followed Jesus, he became part of a movement that would change the world—a movement that continues to this day, powered by the same grace that called him from his old life into a new one.

But what about us? What does this story mean for us, here and now? The grace that transformed Levi’s life is the same grace that is available to each of us today. It’s a grace that calls us, not to remain as we are, but to be transformed—to leave behind the old ways, the old labels, the old burdens, and to step into the new life that Jesus offers.

This grace is not just for the "Levis" of the world—those who have been pushed to the margins, those who feel unworthy or unloved. It’s for all of us. It’s for those of us who have been carrying the weight of past mistakes, those who have been defined by others—or by ourselves—based on our failures, our shortcomings, or our circumstances. It’s for anyone who has ever felt that they are too far gone, too flawed, too broken to be reached by God’s love.

And this grace doesn’t stop with us. Just as Levi didn’t keep his encounter with Jesus to himself, but invited others to experience it too, we are called to do the same. The grace we’ve received isn’t meant to be hoarded; it’s meant to be shared. It’s meant to extend beyond the walls of the church, beyond the boundaries we’ve set, to reach those who, like Levi, are waiting for someone to say, "Follow Me."

Think about the people in your life—your friends, your family, your coworkers. Think about those who, for whatever reason, have been pushed to the margins. Maybe it’s because of their past, their choices, their lifestyle. Maybe it’s because they’ve been judged, labeled, and written off. They might feel like they’re too far gone, that God couldn’t possibly be interested in them.

But just as Jesus saw something in Levi that no one else did, He sees something in each of us and in those around us. He sees beyond the surface, beyond the mistakes, beyond the labels. He sees a person made in the image of God, someone worth redeeming, someone worth calling into a new life.

Our mission, then, is to be like Jesus—to look beyond what the world sees, to extend grace where others might extend judgment, to invite people into the transformative power of the gospel. It’s a mission that requires us to step out of our comfort zones, to reach out to those who are different from us, to those who might be on the outside looking in. It’s a mission that challenges us to see the potential for transformation in everyone, no matter how unlikely it may seem.

The image of new wine in old wineskins is a powerful reminder that the gospel isn’t about patching up the old ways; it’s about embracing something completely new. It’s about allowing ourselves to be reshaped, to be made new, so that we can carry the message of grace to a world that desperately needs it.

As we conclude, I want to challenge you to think about where you might need to let go of the old wineskins in your life. What are the old habits, the old ways of thinking, the old judgments that are keeping you from fully embracing the new life Jesus offers? What are the barriers that need to be broken down so that grace can flow freely through you to others?

And then, consider who in your life needs to hear the words, "Follow Me." Who needs to experience the grace that has transformed you? How can you be the one to extend that invitation, to offer a seat at the table, to make room for someone who might feel like there’s no place for them?

The grace that called Levi from his tax booth is calling us today—to follow Jesus, to be transformed, and to become vessels of that grace in a world that so desperately needs it. Let us go forth, not as we were, but as we are being made new in Christ, carrying with us the message of grace that can change the world, one life at a time.

MS Call to Action:

As we leave here today, let us commit ourselves to living out the inclusivity and transformative power of the gospel. Let us be new wineskins, ready to be filled with the new wine of the Kingdom, and let us extend that invitation to those around us. Follow Jesus into the new life He offers, and invite others to do the same. This is our mission, our calling, and our privilege as disciples of Christ.

Jesus’ call to discipleship confronts cultural and religious conventions, compelling us to cast off our old ways and completely commit to His life-changing grace.