New Testament

Luke 5:36

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus uses a simple parable to illustrate a deeper truth about change and the incompatibility of old and new.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

He also told them a parable: "Nobody tears a patch from a new garment to sew it on an old one. If you did, you'd ruin the new garment, and the new patch wouldn't match the old fabric anyway.

KJVKing James Version

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.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus uses a simple parable to illustrate a deeper truth about change and the incompatibility of old and new. He explains that you wouldn't take a piece from a new garment to fix an old one because it would ruin both. The new patch would not match the old fabric, and the new garment would be damaged. This parable highlights the idea that the new teachings and ways of Jesus cannot simply be added to the old traditions and practices of the Pharisees. Instead, a complete transformation is necessary. The message is about the need for a new approach to faith that cannot be mixed with outdated beliefs. Jesus is emphasizing that His message brings a new covenant that requires a fresh perspective and commitment.

How to apply Luke 5:36 to your life

This verse encourages us to embrace new ideas and changes in our spiritual lives. It reminds us that trying to mix old beliefs with new insights can lead to confusion and conflict. We should be open to fully adopting new teachings and practices that align with our faith.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 5:36 mean about old and new garments?

In Luke 5:36, Jesus uses the metaphor of garments to illustrate the incompatibility of old traditions and new teachings. The verse suggests that just as you wouldn't patch an old garment with a new piece of fabric, you cannot mix the old religious practices of the Pharisees with the new covenant Jesus brings. This highlights the need for a complete transformation in faith rather than merely adding new ideas to outdated beliefs.

How does Luke 5:36 apply to modern faith practices?

Luke 5:36 encourages modern believers to evaluate their faith practices critically. It suggests that clinging to outdated beliefs while trying to incorporate new insights can lead to confusion. Instead, it calls for a willingness to embrace a fresh perspective on faith that aligns with the teachings of Jesus, promoting a complete transformation rather than a mere patchwork of old and new.

What is the significance of the parable in Luke 5:36?

The parable in Luke 5:36 is significant because it emphasizes the radical nature of Jesus' teachings. It illustrates that the new covenant He offers cannot simply be added to existing religious structures; it requires a fundamental shift in understanding and practice. This parable serves as a reminder that true faith may demand letting go of old ways to fully embrace the new life Jesus offers.

Why did Jesus use clothing as a metaphor in Luke 5:36?

Jesus used clothing as a metaphor in Luke 5:36 because it is a relatable and clear illustration of change and incompatibility. Clothing is something everyone understands, and the act of patching garments symbolizes the attempt to mix old and new ideas. This metaphor effectively communicates the message that the new teachings of Jesus cannot coexist with outdated traditions, highlighting the need for a new approach to faith.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

Premium

Unlock the full Luke summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Luke — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Luke summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.