Introduction
Fasting—though a practice that's mentioned frequently throughout the Bible—can be a contentious subject today. Some Christians are encouraged to fast regularly, while others may feel uncomfortable with the notion or see it as a non-essential ritual. This disparity can sometimes make fasting a very emotional issue. Some advocate for fasting as a crucial discipline, while others prefer to keep their focus on other aspects of faith and obedience. Regardless of where we stand, it’s important to look at the role fasting played in Scripture, examine its purpose, and ask how it can apply to our lives today.
Throughout the Bible, fasting is a common practice among some of the most notable figures, from Moses to Esther and even Jesus Himself. Fasting is integral to the foundation of New Testament Christianity. Let’s take a cursory look at fasting as it appears throughout Scripture.
I. Fasting in the Old Testament
The practice of fasting in the Old Testament was central to the spiritual life of God’s people. While fasting was not always referred to by name, its significance is clear.
A. The Day of Atonement: The only fast commanded by the Law was the fast observed on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:29-31; 23:26-32). Although not called "fasting," the command was to "afflict one's soul," which involved abstaining from food. This was not merely a physical discipline, but an act with a deep spiritual purpose—seeking atonement and humbling oneself before God.
B. Other Instances of Fasting: Fasting was also observed in various situations;
• Times of War or Threat (Judges 20:26; 1 Samuel 7:6)
• When Loved Ones Were Sick (2 Samuel 12:16-23)
• For the Sake of Enemies (Psalm 35:11-13)
• After a Loved One Died (1 Samuel 31:13; 1 Chronicles 10:12)
• Seeking Forgiveness (Deuteronomy 9:15-18; Jonah 3:4-10)
• In the Face of Danger (Ezra 8:21; Esther 4:3, 4:16)
• To Commemorate Calamities (Jeremiah 52:12-13; 2 Kings 25:23-25)
II. Fasting in the New Testament
Fasting continues to be a vital practice in the New Testament.
A. Fasting and Jesus: Jesus Himself fasted for forty days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-9; Luke 4:1-2). He also taught His disciples about fasting during His Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing that fasting should be done with a humble heart, not for public recognition (Matthew 6:16-18). When questioned by John’s disciples about fasting, Jesus pointed out that His followers would fast once He was taken from them (Matthew 9:14-17). In times of spiritual warfare, Jesus spoke about the combined power of prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:14-21).
B. Fasting and the Early Church
• The church at Antioch fasted before sending out missionaries (Acts 13:1-3).
• The churches of Galatia were also involved in fasting (Acts 14:21-23).
• Even the Apostle Paul fasted regularly (2 Corinthians 11:23-27), and he advised married couples that fasting might be a necessary part of their spiritual lives (1 Corinthians 7:5).
III. The Purpose of Fasting
Fasting is often viewed as a way to humble oneself before God, seeking His favor and intervention. The key purpose of fasting is not just abstaining from food but afflicting the soul, which is about drawing closer to God through humbling oneself.
A. Grief and Affliction: Sometimes, fasting is a natural response to grief or a difficult situation. In such times, it’s a way of humbling the soul and seeking God’s comfort.
B. Humbling the Soul: More commonly, fasting is used as a means of humbling oneself before God, believing that such humility could open the door to God’s blessings (Psalm 35:13; Ezra 8:21-23).
IV. The Nature of Fasting
The nature of fasting can vary, depending on the intent and context.
A. Total Fasting: The most common form is to abstain from all food, though water may still be consumed.
B. Partial Fasting: Sometimes, a fast is partial, where certain foods or meals are restricted (Daniel 10:2-3).
C. Absolute Fasting: In some cases, people fasted absolutely, abstaining from both food and water (Esther 4:16; Acts 9:9).
V. The Length of Fasting
The Bible mentions different lengths of time for fasting:
• One Day (Judges 20:26; 1 Samuel 14:24)
• Three Days (Esther 4:16)
• Seven Days (1 Samuel 31:13)
• Forty Days (Exodus 34:28; Matthew 4:2)
VI. Warnings Concerning Fasting
As with any discipline, fasting can be misused. Scripture gives us several warnings:
• Empty Rituals (Isaiah 58:3-9)
• Fasting for Show (Matthew 6:16-18)
Fasting is meant to be a humble, personal act of devotion, not a means of gaining public recognition or going through the motions.
VII. Summary of Thoughts on Fasting
A. Should Christians Fast Today? Yes, fasting is an essential part of the Christian life. Jesus assumed that His followers would fast (Matthew 9:14-15), and the early church practiced fasting regularly. While it’s not a mandate, it’s a spiritual discipline that should be pursued with the right heart.
B. Why Should Christians Fast? Fasting can help us seek divine help in times of temptation, illness, major life changes, or when we need forgiveness. It’s a way of humbling ourselves before God and seeking His will.
C. How Should Christians Fast? Fasting should not be done to be seen by others (Matthew 6:16-18). It shouldn’t be a ritualistic habit, nor should it be done without genuine repentance and humility (Isaiah 58:3-9).
Conclusion
Fasting is a private matter between the believer and God. While the church may call for a fast, it’s ultimately up to the individual. Jesus expects His followers to fast, but how and when they do so is a personal choice. Fasting, when done with the right heart, can deepen our relationship with God and open doors to His blessings. The choice is yours.
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