Joyce Meyer Sermon: New Wine and Old Wineskins – Part 1:
In this thought-provoking sermon “New Wine and Old Wineskins – Part 1,” Joyce Meyer delves into the profound message of spiritual transformation and renewal. Drawing from the parable in the Gospels, she explains how believers must be open to God’s new ways of working in their lives, shedding outdated mindsets and embracing the fresh work of the Holy Spirit. Meyer’s teaching encourages listeners to let go of old habits, embrace spiritual growth, and position themselves to receive God’s new blessings.
Understanding the Parable: New Wine and Old Wineskins
Joyce Meyer begins by breaking down the biblical metaphor found in the words of Jesus:
“No one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the skins; the wine will run out, and the wineskins will be ruined. No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins.” (Luke 5:37-38, NIV)
In biblical times, wineskins were made from animal hides. As new wine fermented, it expanded, requiring flexible skins to contain it. Old wineskins, having lost their elasticity, would burst under the pressure. Meyer uses this illustration to highlight how God’s new work in our lives often requires a renewal of our hearts and minds to hold the fresh outpouring of His Spirit.
Letting Go of the Old
Joyce Meyer emphasizes that holding onto old mindsets, habits, and patterns can limit spiritual growth. She explains that God’s plans for us are often far greater than what we can imagine, but they require a willingness to leave behind what is familiar and step into the unknown.
Key Points:
Release Control: Stop clinging to old ways of thinking or doing things that no longer serve God’s purpose.
Let Go of Comfort Zones: Growth often requires discomfort. Be willing to embrace change, even when it feels unsettling.
Bible Verse:
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18-19, NIV)
Becoming a New Wineskin
Meyer challenges her audience to evaluate their readiness for God’s new wine. She explains that becoming a “new wineskin” involves spiritual renewal and a willingness to be molded by God. This transformation is not merely external but begins with a heart that is humble, teachable, and open to God’s leading.
Practical Steps:
Renew Your Mind: Align your thoughts with God’s Word through daily meditation on Scripture.
Surrender to God’s Will: Trust God’s plans, even when they diverge from your expectations.
Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance: Allow the Spirit to reveal areas in your life that need change and renewal.
The Danger of Resistance
Joyce Meyer cautions that resisting God’s new work can lead to spiritual stagnation. Like an old wineskin that bursts under pressure, refusing to adapt can cause us to miss out on the fullness of God’s blessings. She encourages believers to adopt an attitude of faith and flexibility, trusting that God’s ways are always higher and better than our own.
Illustration:
Meyer shares examples of biblical figures like the Pharisees, who clung to their traditions and missed the new move of God through Jesus. In contrast, she highlights individuals like the disciples who left everything to follow Christ and were part of the greatest spiritual transformation in history.
Positioning Yourself for God’s New Work
To receive God’s new wine, believers must be willing to:
Embrace Change: Understand that spiritual growth often requires a shift in perspective.
Cultivate Gratitude: Be thankful for what God has done but remain expectant for what He will do next.
Walk by Faith: Trust God’s process, even when the path ahead seems unclear.
Bible Verse:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV)
A Prayer for Renewal
Heavenly Father, thank You for the new work You are doing in my life. Help me to let go of the old and embrace the new. Transform my heart and mind so I can be a vessel for Your Spirit. I trust in Your plans and look forward to the blessings You have in store. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Final Thoughts
In “New Wine and Old Wineskins – Part 1,” Joyce Meyer challenges us to examine our lives and make room for the fresh work of the Holy Spirit. God desires to pour out His new wine into our lives, but it requires us to become new wineskins—flexible, adaptable, and ready to receive. Take a step of faith today, and allow God to renew, transform, and bless you in ways beyond your imagination.
Watch this sermon below :
Video credit : Joyce Meyer Ministries Youtube