Luke 5:36
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.
Luke 5:36 · King James Version
Meaning
Jesus often used parables to teach important spiritual lessons. In this particular verse, Jesus uses the analogy of putting a piece of new garment on an old one to convey a deeper meaning. The new garment represents the new life and teachings that Jesus brings, while the old garment symbolizes the old ways and traditions that need to be replaced. By attempting to patch up the old with the new, it will not only ruin the new garment but also fail to blend in with the old. Similarly, Jesus is emphasizing the need for a complete transformation and renewal in one's life, rather than simply adding on to old habits or beliefs. This parable serves as a reminder that true spiritual growth comes from embracing the new teachings and way of life that Jesus offers, instead of trying to mix them with outdated practices. It encourages believers to fully commit to the teachings of Jesus and allow them to bring about a complete change in their lives.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological implications of the verse Luke 5:36, it is important to consider the context in which Jesus is speaking. In this parable, Jesus uses the analogy of putting a piece of a new garment onto an old one to illustrate the incompatibility between the old Mosaic Law and the new covenant that He was ushering in through His ministry. The old garment represents the legalistic practices and traditions of the Jewish religious leaders, while the new piece symbolizes the freedom and grace found in Jesus Christ. By trying to combine the two, Jesus is teaching that the old ways cannot contain the new message He is bringing. This parable serves as a reminder to his followers that they must embrace the new teachings and not try to conform them to the outdated practices of the past. Through this comparison, Jesus emphasizes the need for a complete transformation in thought and action in order to fully embrace the gospel message.
Luke 5:36 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he spake also a parable unto them: No man rendeth a piece from a new garment and putteth it upon an old garment; else he will rend the new, and also the piece from the new will not agree with the old.
World English Bible
He also told a parable to them. “No one puts a piece from a new garment on an old garment, or else he will tear the new, and also the piece from the new will not match the old.
Douay-Rheims
And he spoke also a similitude to them: That no man putteth a piece from a new garment upon an old garment: otherwise he both rendeth the new, and the piece taken from the new agreeth not with the old.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Againe he spake also vnto them a parable, No man putteth a piece of a newe garment into an olde vesture: for then the newe renteth it, and the piece taken out of the newe, agreeth not with the olde.