Biblical Answer

Jesus on Fasting: A Biblical Perspective

Jesus assumes that his disciples will fast, as evident in Matthew 9:15, where he says, "The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast." This statement implies that fasting will become a spiritual discipline again in the future. Jesus does not say how they will fast; instead, he emphasizes the value of fasting as a sign of repentance before God rather than as an effort to impress others with personal piety.

The Purpose and Practice of Fasting

Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that involves praying with one's body, offering all desires to God. Jesus practiced fasting, as evident in Matthew 4:1-2, where he fasted for 40 days in the wilderness. The apostles also fasted, as seen in Acts 13:2-3 and 14:23, where they fasted for special purposes. Fasting is not about giving up food but about spending time in the presence of God. It is a way to humble oneself, seek God's guidance, and experience His presence in a deeper way. The secret to fasting is not in the duration or the type of food but in the attitude and heart with which one approaches it.

Fasting as a Spiritual Discipline

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that should be practiced regularly, especially when the spiritual state of the church is low. As Jesus said, "Return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments" (Joel 2:12-13a). Fasting is a way to return to God with a broken and humble heart, seeking His presence and guidance. It is a way to experience God's power and presence in our lives, to seek His guidance, and to humble ourselves before Him. As we fast, we open ourselves to God's grace and mercy, and we experience His presence in a deeper way. Fasting is not a legalistic requirement but a spiritual discipline that can bring us closer to God and help us experience His presence in a deeper way. The question of how Christians should fast according to Jesus is a complex one, but based on the provided information, it is clear that Jesus assumes his disciples will fast and that fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline. Fasting is not about giving up food but about spending time in the presence of God, and it is a way to humble oneself, seek God's guidance, and experience His presence in a deeper way. Jesus practiced fasting, as evident in Matthew 4:1-2, and the apostles also fasted for special purposes, as seen in Acts 13:2-3 and 14:23. Fasting is a way to return to God with a broken and humble heart, seeking His presence and guidance, and it is a way to experience God's power and presence in our lives. It is not a legalistic requirement but a spiritual discipline that can bring us closer to God and help us experience His presence in a deeper way.