Biblical Answer

Why did Jesus say to fast in secret?

#### Introduction

In the Bible, Jesus instructed his disciples to fast in secret, as recorded in Matthew 6:16-18. This passage is part of Jesus' teaching on the importance of spiritual disciplines, including fasting, prayer, and generosity. Jesus' instruction to fast in secret may seem counterintuitive, especially in a culture where public displays of piety are often valued. However, Jesus' teaching on fasting in secret reveals a deeper truth about the nature of spiritual fasting and its relationship to God.

#### The Context of Fasting in the Bible

In the Old Testament, fasting was often associated with repentance, mourning, and seeking God's guidance. Fasting was also a way for individuals to demonstrate their devotion to God and to seek His favor. However, Jesus' teaching on fasting in secret suggests that the primary motivation for fasting should not be to impress others or to demonstrate one's piety, but rather to seek a deeper relationship with God. Jesus assumed that his disciples would continue to practice voluntary fasting based on spiritual interest and hunger, rather than as a means of external display.

#### The Purpose of Fasting in Secret

Jesus' instruction to fast in secret may be understood as a way of avoiding the trap of external piety, where individuals fast in order to impress others or to gain social status. By fasting in secret, Jesus' disciples are able to focus on their relationship with God, rather than seeking to display their spirituality to others. This approach to fasting is in line with Jesus' teaching on the importance of single-minded service to God, where individuals are to prioritize their relationship with God above all else. By fasting in secret, Jesus' disciples are able to cultivate a deeper sense of intimacy with God, free from the distraction of external expectations and displays of piety. Ultimately, Jesus' instruction to fast in secret is an invitation to His followers to prioritize their relationship with God, and to seek a deeper sense of spiritual connection with Him.