Introduction
This is one of those passages that at first glance seem so simple, and yet, upon further study, one realizes that the subject of fasting is much broader than simply not eating.
I. Explanation of the Passage in the Context
A. Jesus is addressing three areas of life that were large elements in the practical life of the righteous.
B. Notice that in all three instances, Jesus assumes that his disciples will practice righteousness and specifically these three acts (when you), 2, 5, 16.
C. The wrong way to fast, 16.
D. The right way to fast, 17-18.
E. By now you may be thinking, “what’s so hard to understand about fasting?”
II. Where Does Fasting Come From?
A. Fasting is not an essentially Jewish or Christian thing – Several religions have practiced it through the centuries – Buddhists and Hindus
B. Fasting is not even essentially a religious thing.
C. Though not essentially Jewish or Christian, fasting was part of the religious experience God’s people in the pages of the Scriptures.
D. But question still remains: are these examples normative for us to follow? In other words, is there such thing as a Christian fast?
III. Two Other Passages That May Muddy the Waters or Clear Our Understanding: Mt. 9:14-17& Isa. 58:1-12
A. Mt. 9:14-17 is the only other place where Jesus teaches on fasting.
B. Is. 58:1-12 is very much like Mt. 6:16-18.
IV. What We Have Learned Today.
A. Not nearly enough – we will come back to this subject next time to talk about the actual practice of fasting from food.
B. We did learn that fasting is part of the Christian life as a voluntary discipline – some may fast and some may not.
C. We have learned that fasting is a private exercise, which you shouldn’t publicize from the roof top.
D. We have learned that fasting points to the fact that this life now and this world now is not all there is.
E. Above all, we learned that fasting goes beyond not eating.
Conclusion
Have you hailed the power of Jesus in your life? Is your life a perpetual fast in the sight of God? Is Jesus reigning in every corner of your heart? If he is not, I beg you to submit to him. Fall before him and he will lift you up.
Are you a follower of King Jesus by faith? Continue to pursue him, to seek him first and “The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; you shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.”
