In Matthew 9, Jesus introduces a new way of fasting that shifts the focus from religious ritual to personal relationship with God. Rather than fasting out of duty or public display, Jesus teaches that fasting should be rooted in joy, intimacy with Him, and spiritual renewal. He compares His presence to a wedding celebration—while He’s with His disciples, fasting isn’t needed. But once He’s gone, fasting becomes a personal response to seek and draw closer to God.
This new way of fasting isn’t about earning favor or proving holiness—it’s about making space for God to move in your life. It’s quiet, purposeful, and Spirit-led. If you’ve only seen fasting as a rule to follow or a spiritual task to check off, Jesus’ words offer a powerful reframe. Keep reading to explore exactly how this new model works and how you can practice it in a real, meaningful way.
Fasting was a serious part of Jewish life in Jesus’ time. It still is for many Christians today. But in Matthew 9:14–17, Jesus introduces something different—something new. If you’ve ever wondered what that new way of fasting looks like, how it’s different from Old Testament practices, and what it means for you, you’re in the right place.
Let’s break it down.
1. The Context: Why Are We Even Talking About Fasting?
Fasting in the Bible isn’t just about skipping meals. It’s tied to mourning, repentance, humility, and seeking God’s direction.
- In the Old Testament, fasting often happened during crises or to show sorrow for sin (see Joel 2:12, 2 Samuel 12:16).
- The Pharisees fasted regularly, often twice a week (Luke 18:12), and saw it as a sign of religious devotion.
So when Jesus and His disciples weren’t fasting, people noticed. That’s exactly what sparks the question in Matthew 9.
Matthew 9:14 (NIV)
“Then John’s disciples came and asked him, ‘How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?’”
This wasn’t just curiosity. It was a challenge. Why would someone claiming to be from God ignore something so serious?
2. Jesus’ Answer: Something New Is Here
Jesus doesn’t dodge the question. He answers with clarity—and metaphor.
Matthew 9:15 (NIV)
“Jesus answered, ‘How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.’”
Let’s unpack that.
- The Bridegroom = Jesus
- The Guests = His disciples
- The Celebration = Jesus’ presence with them
He’s saying, “You don’t fast at a wedding.” That would be inappropriate. A wedding is a time of joy. And while Jesus is with them physically, His disciples are living in that joy.
Key takeaway:
Fasting isn’t about looking religious. It’s about relationship and timing.
3. The Shift: From Ritual to Relationship
Jesus doesn’t stop there. He continues with two more illustrations that explain why the old way doesn’t fit the new reality He’s introducing.
Matthew 9:16-17 (NIV)
“No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment… Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins…”
Let’s simplify this:
- Unshrunk patch on old garment = It’ll tear the old fabric.
- New wine in old wineskins = The skins will burst.
These are everyday examples with spiritual meaning.
What Jesus Is Saying:
- You can’t force His new way into old systems.
- The Kingdom of God He’s bringing isn’t about rigid rituals.
- It’s about inner transformation, not external performance.
This includes how and why we fast.
4. So, What Is the New Way of Fasting?
If the old way was about mourning, law-keeping, and national repentance, the new way Jesus introduces is about intimacy with God, personal renewal, and living in response to the Gospel.
Let’s look at the key differences:
| Old Way of Fasting | New Way of Fasting (Jesus’ Way) |
| Done regularly out of duty (e.g. twice a week) | Done in response to the Spirit’s leading |
| Public displays to show devotion | Private discipline rooted in humility |
| Focused on external rituals | Focused on inward transformation |
| Associated with mourning | Associated with seeking God’s presence |
Remember Jesus’ words from Matthew 6:16-18, just three chapters earlier:
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face…”
Translation? Don’t make a show of it. Fasting is between you and God.
5. When Should You Fast Today?
Jesus never says fasting is obsolete. He says, “Then they will fast” (Matthew 9:15). That “then” is now—after His death, resurrection, and ascension.
So, fasting still matters. But the why and how have changed.
You might fast when:
- You’re seeking God’s direction (Acts 13:2-3)
- You’re battling temptation or spiritual warfare (Matthew 4:1-2)
- You need breakthrough or renewal
- You’re interceding for others
- You’re repenting and drawing near to God (James 4:8-10)
Fasting in Jesus’ way is a response to His presence in your life—not an attempt to earn it.
6. Practical Tips for Fasting the Jesus Way
If you’re feeling led to fast, here’s how to keep it simple and Christ-centered:
1. Start small
Don’t jump into a 3-day water-only fast if you’ve never fasted before. Start with one meal or one day.
2. Make it intentional
Use the time you’d be eating to pray, read Scripture, or just sit in silence with God.
3. Keep it private
Tell only those who absolutely need to know. Don’t post about it. Don’t seek approval.
4. Focus on Jesus, not the food
Fasting isn’t about self-denial for its own sake. It’s about making room for God.
Matthew 4:4 (NIV)
“Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
7. Final Thoughts: The Heart of the Matter
Jesus isn’t trying to cancel fasting. He’s redefining it. He’s showing that following Him means a new way to approach everything, including spiritual disciplines.
Fasting isn’t a tool to twist God’s arm. It’s a way to quiet your soul and align your heart with His.
So if you’re fasting because you want more of Jesus—not just more blessings—you’re doing it His way.
Quick Summary
- Matthew 9 teaches that fasting is about presence, not performance.
- Jesus introduces a new way of fasting: not out of religious duty, but out of a relationship.
- It’s not about what you give up, but about what you’re making space for—God Himself.
Need a Next Step?
If you’re ready to try this kind of fasting:
- Pick a day.
- Choose what to fast from (meals, media, distractions).
- Set aside time for prayer and Scripture.
- Ask God to meet you in it.
And remember: The Bridegroom is still near—through the Holy Spirit in you. That’s worth celebrating and fasting for.
Related Verses for Further Study:
- Matthew 6:16–18 – Jesus’ teaching on secret fasting
- Isaiah 58 – True fasting that pleases God
- Joel 2:12–13 – Return to God with fasting
- Acts 13:2–3 – Fasting before sending out missionaries
10 FAQs About the New Way of Fasting Jesus Teaches in Matthew 9
1. What is the new way of fasting Jesus teaches in Matthew 9?
The new way of fasting Jesus teaches in Matthew 9 focuses on relationship rather than religious ritual. Jesus compares Himself to a bridegroom, and says fasting isn’t necessary while He is present. Once He’s gone, fasting becomes a personal, Spirit-led act of devotion—not a public display or religious obligation.
2. Why didn’t Jesus’ disciples fast like the Pharisees?
Jesus said His disciples didn’t fast because He—the bridegroom—was with them (Matthew 9:15). Fasting during that time would be like mourning at a wedding. Their time with Jesus was meant to be joyful, not sorrowful.
3. What does the metaphor of new wine in old wineskins mean in Matthew 9?
Jesus uses the metaphor of new wine in old wineskins to show that His new way of life, including fasting, doesn’t fit into old religious structures. Trying to mix the two will “burst” the system. His teachings require a new heart and mindset.
4. Is fasting still relevant for Christians today?
Yes, but the approach is different. Jesus says His followers will fast after He is gone. Today, fasting is a way to seek God, listen to the Holy Spirit, and grow spiritually—not a legalistic requirement.
5. How does Jesus’ teaching change the purpose of fasting?
Jesus shifts fasting from being an outward show of religion to an inward act of devotion. It’s no longer about earning God’s favor but about growing closer to Him and making space for His presence.
6. When should Christians fast according to the new way Jesus teaches?
Christians should fast when led by the Holy Spirit—during times of seeking God’s will, spiritual warfare, repentance, or deepening their relationship with God (see Acts 13:2-3 and Matthew 6:16-18).
7. How is fasting under the new covenant different from the Old Testament?
In the Old Testament, fasting was often public, national, and tied to mourning or repentance. Under Jesus’ new covenant, fasting is personal, private, and focused on deepening your walk with God.
8. What’s the main lesson Jesus teaches about fasting in Matthew 9?
The main lesson is that fasting should align with your relationship with Jesus. It’s not about timing on a calendar—it’s about the condition of your heart and your desire to be closer to Him.
9. Can you fast from things other than food?
Yes. While biblical fasting usually involves food, you can fast from anything that distracts you from God—like media, social media, entertainment, or noise. The goal is still the same: draw nearer to God.
10. What’s the benefit of fasting the way Jesus teaches?
Fasting Jesus’ way leads to spiritual clarity, a stronger connection with God, and transformation from the inside out. It aligns your desires with God’s and helps you grow in grace, humility, and faith.
