Biblical Answer

Jesus' statement to fast in secret is rooted in the context of the Jewish tradition of fasting as a display of piety. The Pharisees, who were known for their strict adherence to Jewish customs, raised the issue of fasting because Jesus and his disciples seemed to be lax in observing this tradition. Jesus responded by saying that his followers would fast, but not as a means of impressing others with their piety.

In this context, Jesus emphasizes the value of fasting as a sign of repentance before God, rather than as a means of seeking to impress others with personal piety. He assumes that his disciples will continue to practice voluntary fasting based on spiritual interest and hunger. Jesus' instruction to fast in secret is likely a response to the Pharisees' emphasis on fasting as a public display of piety. By fasting in secret, Jesus' followers can focus on their relationship with God, rather than seeking to impress others with their piety.

The motivation for fasting in secret is not to hide one's piety, but to focus on the heart and not on the external display of it. Jesus wants his followers to be single-minded in their service to God, and to trust in his compassionate care. Fasting in secret allows his followers to cultivate a deeper relationship with God, and to trust in his provision and care. This is in line with Jesus' teaching on prayer, generosity, and fasting, where he emphasizes the importance of loyalty to God and trust in his compassionate care.