Are you being encouraged to fast? If so, make sure it’s for the right reasons.
The Puzzles
Jesus fasted, but never taught his disciples to. Why not? Jesus said to fast in secret, but later the church fasted together. Why? There’s no teaching on it in the epistles. Why not?
The Pithy Parables
When John the Baptist’s disciples asked Jesus, “How is it your disciples do not fast?” Jesus replied with three pithy parables (see Luke 5:33-39).
- How can the guest of the Bridegroom fast when he’s with them?
- You don’t tear a patch off a new garment and sew it on an old one.
- You don’t put new wine into old wineskins.
I suddenly saw these represented the three unique promises of the New Covenant.
First, it’s about relationship. We are reconnected to God the Father through Christ the Son.
Second, clothing in Scripture is a symbol of righteousness. We are deemed righteous in God’s sight by faith in the blood of Jesus and his resurrection.
Third, wine is a symbol of the Spirit. Under the New Covenant, we are privileged to be able receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit.
So why fast?
Therefore, there is no reason to fast to draw near to God. He is already near us, for Christ lives in me (Galatians 2:20). How much nearer can he get?
There is no reason to fast to become more righteous. We are righteous by faith, not by fasting.
Thirdly, we don’t need to fast to receive the Spirit. He is promised if we ask (see Luke 11:13).
Fasting for these things betrays a lack of faith in God’s promises. So when should we fast? Only when the Holy Spirit tells you to! Otherwise, it’s futile. Click for the full story.