NEW WINE
"And no one after drinking old wine immediately desires new wine, for he says, The old is good or better." Luke 5:39 AMP
Many Christians are experiencing a decline in their zest for God and their service to Him. Many churches are experiencing shrinking congregations, and to leaders it appears the gates of hell are claiming more than the Kingdom of God; and, they are concerned. But I propose that God is desiring new life for His Church, for the old has become fruitless. Some churches are trying to keep old attitudes but put on a "new" face to attract people into their congregations. But, "no one puts a patch from a new garment on an old garment; if he does, he will both tear the new one, and the patch from the new [one] will no match the old [garment]." Some individuals and churches are not ready for what God is desiring to do in our generation for His glory. They want to keep the old structure form and tradition for it is comforting in its familiarity. They fear the transformation that must take place in order for God to regain His rightful place as Lord of all. They fear ruination rather than embrace reformation. And so, no one is allowed to bring "new wine skins" (structure)in order that God may fill with His "new wine." If we, the church, will seek His will and direction afresh for today, realizing that apart from Him there is no fruitfulness(John 15), we will find the "new wine" is better. Think about it.
© S.M. Hudson, Hidden Treasure Ministries, December 2003. All rights reserved.
Categories: forgiveness