When There Is No More Wine, He Makes New Wine

WHEN THERE IS NO MORE WINE, HE MAKES NEW WINE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 2:1-11

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 43:19, Joel 2:19, Psalm 104:15, 2 Kings 4:1-7, Revelation 21:5

INTRODUCTION:

Life can sometimes reach moments of emptiness, dryness, or lack—moments when joy runs out, strength is depleted, and hope fades. In the story of the wedding at Cana, we are introduced to such a moment: there was no more wine. In biblical symbolism, wine often represents joy, celebration, and abundance. The absence of wine represented the end of joy and the beginning of shame for the hosts.

But Jesus was there. His presence turned an impending embarrassment into a miracle of abundance. This account is not just about wine at a wedding—it’s about how God steps into human crises and brings new beginnings. It reminds us that when we run out, Jesus still has more to give. Where man ends, God begins.

If your life has lost its “wine”—whether joy, peace, favour, or purpose—Jesus is still the One who makes new wine. He doesn’t just refill what is empty; He transforms what is common into something extraordinary.

1. JESUS KNOWS WHEN THE WINE IS GONE

Even when we do not speak it, Jesus knows the emptiness in our hearts and homes.

a) Jesus is never unaware of our needs (John 2:3):

Mary turned to Jesus when the wine ran out, recognising He was aware of their situation.

b) God is not surprised by your emptiness (Psalm 139:1-4):

He knows your thoughts and needs even before you speak them.

c) Your need is an opportunity for His glory (John 11:4):

What looks like a crisis may be a stage for God's intervention.

d) He responds to those who call upon Him (Jeremiah 33:3):

God reveals great and mighty things when we cry out in faith.

Biblical Example: Hagar in the wilderness thought all was lost, but God saw her and provided water for her and her son (Genesis 21:14-19).

2. NEW WINE COMES THROUGH OBEDIENCE

Miracles are often born out of simple, faith-filled obedience to God's instructions.

a) Jesus gave specific instructions (John 2:7):

“Fill the jars with water.” Though it seemed illogical, the servants obeyed without hesitation.

b) Obedience precedes manifestation (Deuteronomy 28:1-2):

When we heed God's voice, His blessings follow.

c) God uses ordinary vessels for extraordinary miracles (2 Corinthians 4:7):

The stone water jars became vessels of transformation.

d) Partial obedience hinders full results (1 Samuel 15:22):

Obedience is better than sacrifice—it positions us for divine increase.

Biblical Example: Naaman was healed only after he fully obeyed Elisha’s instruction to dip seven times (2 Kings 5:10-14).

3. GOD SAVES THE BEST FOR LAST

With God, the end can be better than the beginning.

a) The master of the feast was surprised by the quality of wine (John 2:10):

God’s miracles are not only timely—they are excellent.

b) God’s timing is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11):

He makes everything beautiful in its time.

c) Delayed answers are not denied answers (Habakkuk 2:3):

The vision will come to pass at the appointed time.

d) Divine provision always exceeds human expectation (Ephesians 3:20):

God is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or think.

Biblical Example: Job’s latter end was more blessed than his beginning (Job 42:10-12).

4. HIS GLORY IS REVEALED IN TIMES OF LACK

God uses our seasons of need to reveal His power and glory.

a) The miracle at Cana manifested Jesus’ glory (John 2:11):

This was the beginning of signs by which His disciples believed in Him.

b) Trials become testimonies when God steps in (Romans 8:28):

All things work together for the good of those who love God.

c) Our weakness is an avenue for His strength (2 Corinthians 12:9):

His power is made perfect in our weakness.

d) His presence changes the atmosphere (Psalm 16:11):

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is fullness of joy.

Biblical Example: The widow of Zarephath was on her last meal, but God turned her lack into supernatural supply through Elijah (1 Kings 17:12-16).

5. HE STILL MAKES NEW WINE TODAY

Jesus is still in the business of renewal, restoration, and transformation.

a) He brings new seasons into our lives (Isaiah 43:19):

Behold, I will do a new thing; it shall spring forth now.

b) God gives beauty for ashes and joy for mourning (Isaiah 61:3):

What you thought was the end is only the beginning.

c) Jesus is the true source of joy (John 15:11):

He gives joy that is full and lasting.

d) In Christ, your best days are still ahead (Philippians 1:6):

He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.

Biblical Example: Peter, after denying Christ, was restored and empowered for ministry on the day of Pentecost (John 21:15-17, Acts 2:14-41).