Mark 2:21

The old customs of the old covenant do not fit with the new arrival of God's kingdom. People know that a patch of unshrunk cloth sewn on old clothing will tear the old cloth as it shrinks. In the same way, cracking old wineskins will burst when new wine ferments in them. The fasting of the old ways cannot be mixed with the feasting that comes with the new.

This controversy deals with fasting, which Jesus did not practice with his disciples. The Pharisees regularly fasted two days a week, on Mondays and Thursdays (Luke 18:12). Jews often fasted when mourning or specially seeking the Lord's favor (Leviticus 16:29–31; 1 Samuel 31:13; 2 Samuel 1:12; 12:21–23; Ezra 8:23; Esther 4:3; Matthew 6:16).

Five controversy stories (2:1–12, 13–17, 18–22, 23–28; 3:1–6) are grouped together because they share a common theme. Each story shows a conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders. In these accounts, Jesus says or does things that challenge their beliefs and practices. These stories show the great authority that Jesus has.