Fasting isn’t just an old religious habit—it’s a meaningful way Christians can seek God, especially in seasons of longing, need, or spiritual dryness. In Matthew 9, Jesus explains that fasting isn’t for celebration but for times when His presence feels distant. He tells us that while He was with His disciples, there was no need to fast, but once He was “taken away,” then fasting would have its place again. That time is now.
Fasting isn’t about earning God’s favor or showing off your spirituality. It’s about focusing your heart, expressing dependence on Jesus, and drawing near when you need clarity, strength, or breakthrough. Whether it’s a full fast, a partial fast, or even giving up something like social media, it’s a personal, intentional way to seek God more deeply. Keep reading for a practical breakdown of when and how to fast, and how Jesus’ teaching makes it clear fasting is still for today—just for the right reasons.
Fasting is one of those spiritual disciplines that can feel confusing. Are Christians supposed to fast regularly? Only when there’s a crisis? Or never, because Jesus already accomplished everything?
Let’s clear that up.
In Matthew 9, Jesus talks directly about fasting. What He says—and what He doesn’t say—matters. If you want to understand when Christians should fast and how Jesus views it, this chapter is essential.
Let’s break it down.
What Happens in Matthew 9?
In Matthew 9:14–17, a group of John the Baptist’s disciples comes to Jesus with a straightforward question:
“Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but Your disciples do not fast?” (Matthew 9:14, CSB)
Seems fair, right? Fasting was a normal part of Jewish religious life. The Pharisees did it twice a week (Luke 18:12), and John’s disciples followed a similar practice.
But Jesus’ disciples weren’t fasting. Why not?
Jesus’ Answer: The Bridegroom Analogy
Jesus replies:
“Can the wedding guests be sad while the groom is with them? The time will come when the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.” (Matthew 9:15, CSB)
Let’s unpack this.
1. Fasting isn’t for celebration.
Jesus compares His presence to a wedding celebration. In Jewish culture, weddings were joyful, week-long parties. No one fasted during a wedding.
Jesus is saying: “I’m here now—this is a time for joy, not fasting.”
That tells you something critical. Fasting isn’t about ritual. It’s about longing. You fast when something’s missing. When Jesus was physically with them, His disciples had nothing to long for. But…
2. Fasting is for when Jesus is “taken away.”
Jesus hints at His coming death. He’s saying: “There will be a time when I’m gone. Then my people will fast.”
So fasting isn’t out. It’s just a response to the right season.
So When Should Christians Fast?
Jesus didn’t abolish fasting. He redefined the timing and the heart behind it. According to Matthew 9, Christians fast when:
1. You’re longing for more of Jesus.
That’s the main reason. Fasting isn’t a diet or a religious checkbox. It’s a way to say with your body: “I need You, Lord.”
This applies when:
- You feel spiritually dry
- You want deeper intimacy with God
- You’re seeking clarity or direction
- You’re burdened for someone else
2. You’re in a time of grief, struggle, or repentance.
Old Testament examples of fasting often connect to mourning or repentance (Joel 2:12, Nehemiah 1:4).
Fasting during these times:
- Helps you focus on God’s mercy
- Shows humility
- Keeps your heart soft before God
3. You’re praying for breakthrough.
In Matthew 17:21 (some manuscripts), Jesus says a certain demon could only be driven out by “prayer and fasting.”
In Acts 13:2-3, the early church fasted when seeking God’s direction before sending Paul and Barnabas on mission.
Fasting is a tool—one you use when seeking clarity, boldness, or power for something specific.
Fasting Isn’t About Earning Points
Here’s what fasting is not:
- A way to manipulate God
- A measure of your spiritual worth
- A substitute for obedience
In Isaiah 58, God rebukes Israel for fasting with the wrong heart:
“Is this the fast I choose: to bow one’s head like a reed…? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry?” (Isaiah 58:5-7)
The point? God’s after your heart, not your hunger pains. If you fast but ignore justice, mercy, and humility, it’s pointless.
Jesus’ Other Teachings on Fasting
In Matthew 6:16–18, Jesus gives more insight:
“When you fast, don’t be gloomy like the hypocrites… But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting isn’t obvious to others but to your Father…”
Key takeaways:
1. “When you fast”—not if.
Jesus assumes His followers will fast. Not daily, not as law—but as a part of spiritual life.
2. Fasting is between you and God.
Don’t broadcast your fasting to look spiritual. If you do, that’s your reward. True fasting seeks the Father, not fame.
What Kinds of Fasting Are There?
There’s no single way to fast. Scripture gives different types:
1. Full fast (no food, only water)
- Example: Jesus in the wilderness (Luke 4:2)
- Usually short-term—1 day, 3 days, up to 40 (with God’s strength)
2. Partial fast (certain foods)
- Example: Daniel ate no meat or rich foods (Daniel 10:3)
- Good for longer seasons of focused prayer
3. Intermittent fast
- Skipping meals for spiritual focus (maybe one meal a day)
- Sustainable and common today
4. Non-food fast
- Giving up social media, entertainment, or something else distracting
- Helps refocus your heart
Pick one that fits your life and spiritual needs. The goal isn’t suffering—it’s seeking.
7 Signs It Might Be Time for You to Fast
Here’s a quick checklist. You might need to fast if:
- You feel distant from God
- You’re overwhelmed by a major decision
- You’re grieving or facing loss
- You’re praying for someone’s salvation or healing
- You’re burdened for a breakthrough
- You need to repent and return to God
- You want to hunger for Jesus more than anything else
Final Thoughts: Fasting Isn’t About Food—It’s About Focus
Jesus didn’t throw fasting away. He redirected it toward what matters: Him.
The early church fasted. Jesus expected it. And you don’t do it to look holy—you do it because you want more of God.
Remember His words: “The days will come when the groom will be taken away… then they will fast.”
We’re in those days.
So if you’re hungry for more of Jesus—if you need clarity, breakthrough, or deeper connection—try fasting. It’s not magic. It’s not a formula. It’s just another way to say, “Lord, I need You more than anything.”
Quick Recap
- Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 9 shows that fasting is for when He’s not physically present.
- Fasting is a response to spiritual longing, not a ritual for righteousness.
- Christians should fast when they want to seek God more deeply, repent, or intercede.
- Do it in secret (Matthew 6) and with the right heart (Isaiah 58).
- Types of fasting vary—pick one that fits your purpose and capacity.
One Last Encouragement
Don’t overthink it. Don’t make it complicated. Start small. Be honest with God. And remember—He’s not impressed with how long you go without food. He’s drawn to hearts that seek Him.
If you’re ready, skip a meal this week—not to diet, but to pray. Open your Bible. Talk to God. And say what fasting is really all about:
“Jesus, I want You more than anything.”
FAQs: When Should Christians Fast? Jesus’ Teaching in Matthew 9 Explained
1. What did Jesus teach about fasting in Matthew 9?
Jesus said His disciples didn’t need to fast while He was with them, just like no one fasts during a wedding. But He added that when He was taken away, then they would fast (Matthew 9:15). His teaching shows fasting is appropriate in seasons of longing, not celebration.
2. Does Jesus expect Christians to fast today?
Yes. In Matthew 6:16, Jesus says, “When you fast…”—not if. He expects fasting to be part of your spiritual life, especially while we wait for His return.
3. Why weren’t Jesus’ disciples fasting in Matthew 9?
Because Jesus, the “bridegroom,” was still with them. His presence made it a time of joy, not mourning. Once He was taken away (referring to His death and resurrection), fasting became relevant again.
4. When is the right time for a Christian to fast?
You should fast when you feel spiritually dry, need direction, are seeking breakthrough, mourning, or want to grow closer to God. Fasting is for when your heart is longing for more of Jesus.
5. Is fasting required to be a “good Christian”?
No. Fasting isn’t a requirement—it’s a response. You don’t fast to earn points with God. You fast to seek Him more deeply, not to prove your worth.
6. How long should a Christian fast?
It depends on your purpose and health. Some fast for one meal, one day, several days, or longer. Start small if you’re new to fasting and let the Holy Spirit guide you.
7. Are there different types of fasting for Christians?
Yes. Common types include:
- Full fast (no food)
- Partial fast (limiting food, like Daniel)
- Intermittent fast (skipping meals)
- Non-food fast (giving up distractions like social media)
8. What’s the difference between religious fasting and biblical fasting?
Religious fasting is often done out of duty or to appear spiritual. Biblical fasting is about humbling yourself before God to seek Him. The difference lies in the heart and motive.
9. Can I fast for others, like for healing or salvation?
Yes. Fasting can be a powerful way to intercede for others. In Scripture, people fasted for deliverance, healing, and spiritual breakthrough (see Acts 13:2–3, Esther 4:16).
10. What should I do during a fast?
Spend focused time in prayer, read Scripture, journal, and worship. Use the time you’d normally eat or scroll your phone to seek God. Fasting without prayer is just skipping meals.
