Commentary on Matthew 9:16
Text: “No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment: for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse.”
Introduction
This verse is part of a series of teachings from Jesus in Matthew chapter 9, where He begins to address the distinctions between the old covenant and the new covenant He is establishing. The imagery used here of the old garment and new cloth serves as a powerful metaphor about the incompatibility of the new spiritual realities with old religious practices.
The Problem with the Old and New
Matthew Henry's Commentary: Matthew Henry emphasizes that Jesus is highlighting the futility of trying to combine the old Jewish legalistic practices with the new grace that He brings through His ministry. The old garment symbolizes the Mosaic law and the new cloth represents the teachings and grace of the Gospel. Attempting to patch the old with the new is not only inadequate but detrimental; it creates an even larger tear, symbolizing the complete inadequacy of the old system to accommodate the new.
Albert Barnes Commentary: Barnes elaborates that the “old garment” refers to the established religious traditions and legalistic observance found in Judaism. He notes that the patch of new cloth is not just a simple addition; it represents a transformative principle that is fundamentally at odds with the existing structure. Barnes argues that the old covenant, characterized by sacrifices and rituals, cannot be improved upon with new teachings but must give way entirely to the Gospel of grace.
Adam Clarke's Commentary: Clarke offers a theological perspective by indicating that the piece of new cloth signifies the new order of things established by Christ. He warns against the attempts of the Pharisees and others to integrate the teachings of Christ into their old frameworks. Clarke's exposition highlights the importance of embracing Christ's teaching wholly rather than as a mere accessory to old traditions.
Theological Implications
The implications of this metaphor are profound for both theology and practice. The old covenant contained many expectations and burdens which Christ fulfills and transcends. Thus, the church must understand that Christian faith operates on principles of grace and transformation rather than mere adherence to law.
1. The Incompatibility of the Covenants
The text emphasizes that the new covenant cannot merely be a patch over the old. It invites a new understanding of God’s relationship with humanity. This suggests that while the Old Testament Law served a purpose, its time has ultimately been fulfilled. Believers must embrace the entirety of the new covenant without attempting to superimpose old practices that do not align with the teachings of Christ.
2. The Nature of Christ's Teaching
Christ's Gospel promotes a radical change in the believer’s life. The teachings represented by the new cloth are transformative and require a complete restructuring of thought and action. This ties back to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers into all truth and facilitating a new life that reflects Christ's image.
3. Practical Application for the Church
For church leaders and theologians, this passage calls for reflection on what it means to be a community of faith that genuinely embodies the message of the Gospel. It requires an examination of churches that might still hold onto old traditions or practices that do not align with the essence of Christian faith. The church must be willing to let go of the old to embrace the fullness of Christ.
Conclusion
Matthew 9:16 serves as a critical reminder that the message of Jesus cannot be constrained by old frameworks. Pastors and theologians are encouraged to communicate clearly the distinctiveness of the Gospel, ensuring that congregations do not fall into the traps of legalism and tradition that inhibit spiritual growth and the experience of God’s grace. Instead, they should teach a faith that is vibrant, alive, and reflective of the new creation in Christ.
