Fasting, according to Jesus in Matthew 9, isn’t about religious routine—it’s about relationship. When questioned why His disciples weren’t fasting, Jesus explained that His presence was a time for celebration, not mourning. He compared Himself to a bridegroom at a wedding, saying there would be a time for fasting later—after He was gone. This shows that true fasting isn’t just about skipping meals; it’s about longing for deeper connection with Him.
Jesus also made it clear that fasting should never be for show. It’s a personal, spiritual discipline meant to draw you closer to God—not a way to earn points or appear holy. Whether you’re seeking clarity, preparing for a big decision, or simply hungry for more of God, fasting done with the right heart can transform your spiritual life. Keep reading to dive deeper into what Jesus teaches, when to fast, and how to do it in a way that actually strengthens your faith.
Fasting has always been a part of Christian spiritual practice. But what exactly does Jesus say about it? If you’ve ever wondered how fasting fits into your walk with God or whether you’re doing it for the right reasons, Matthew 9 gives some powerful clarity.
Let’s break it down and look at what Jesus teaches—straight from the source.
What’s Happening in Matthew 9?
In Matthew 9:14-17, a group of people comes to Jesus with a question:
“Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, ‘Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?’” (Matthew 9:14, ESV)
That question gets right to the point: Why aren’t Jesus’ disciples fasting like everyone else?
To understand the answer, you need to understand the bigger picture.
1. The Context of Fasting in Jewish Life
In Jesus’ time, fasting was a regular part of Jewish spiritual life. The Pharisees fasted twice a week (Luke 18:12), and John the Baptist’s disciples followed similar practices. Fasting was usually tied to:
- Mourning
- Repentance
- Seeking God
- Humbling oneself
It was a symbol of devotion. But it could also turn into a ritual that missed the heart behind it.
2. Jesus’ Response: Fasting Is About Relationship
Jesus doesn’t dismiss fasting. He just reframes it.
“Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” (Matthew 9:15)
Here’s what He’s saying:
- He’s the bridegroom—a reference to Himself as the long-awaited Messiah.
- The disciples are the wedding guests—and it wouldn’t make sense for them to fast (mourn) while He’s with them.
- But there will be a time for fasting—after He’s gone.
In other words, fasting isn’t about checking a religious box. It’s about your relationship with Jesus. When He was physically present, there was joy and celebration. But after His crucifixion and resurrection, fasting became a way to draw near again—spiritually.
3. Fasting Isn’t Just a Rule—It’s a Heart Issue
Jesus continues with two quick metaphors:
“No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment… Neither is new wine put into old wineskins.” (Matthew 9:16–17)
What’s He getting at?
Two Key Points:
- Old systems can’t hold the new reality of Jesus.
- Fasting as a legalistic ritual doesn’t work anymore.
- True fasting flows from a transformed heart, not religious obligation.
Jesus is teaching that fasting, like everything in following Him, has to start with the heart.
4. So When Should You Fast?
The answer is: when it makes sense in the context of your relationship with God.
Here are some situations where fasting can be helpful:
- You’re seeking clarity or guidance (Acts 13:2-3)
- You’re repenting from sin (Joel 2:12)
- You’re grieving or in distress (2 Samuel 1:12)
- You want to grow closer to God
But don’t fast just because it’s “what Christians do.” Fast because you’re hungry for more of God.
5. Jesus Fasted Too—But With Purpose
Before His public ministry, Jesus fasted 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2). It wasn’t random. It was preparation.
He was about to face temptation, spiritual warfare, and the biggest mission ever. Fasting wasn’t a punishment—it was spiritual preparation.
If you’re stepping into something big—ministry, a decision, a challenge—fasting can be a powerful way to align your heart with God.
6. What Jesus Says Elsewhere About Fasting
We can’t ignore Matthew 6:16-18. In the same sermon where Jesus teaches the Lord’s Prayer, He also gives guidance on fasting:
“When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites… But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others…”
A few takeaways here:
- Jesus assumes we’ll fast (“when you fast” not “if”)
- Don’t show off—fasting is between you and God
- The reward comes from the Father, not from people’s approval
So if you’re fasting to impress someone, you’re doing it wrong.
7. Fasting in the Early Church
The early Christians took Jesus’ words seriously. Throughout the Book of Acts, you’ll see fasting paired with prayer when:
- Appointing leaders (Acts 14:23)
- Making big decisions (Acts 13:2)
- Seeking the Holy Spirit
Fasting was never just a ritual—it was a response to real spiritual need.
8. How to Start Fasting Today
If you’ve never fasted or have only done it in a religious way, here’s how to get started the Jesus way:
Step-by-Step:
- Start small: Try skipping one meal or fasting from sunrise to sunset.
- Pray before, during, and after: It’s not just about going without food.
- Have a purpose: Clarity, repentance, intimacy with God, etc.
- Stay humble: Don’t post it or make it obvious.
- Listen to God: Use the time to read Scripture and be still.
You don’t need to impress God. You need to pursue Him.
9. What Fasting Is Not
Let’s clear up a few misconceptions:
- It’s not a diet: Don’t fast just to lose weight. That’s not spiritual.
- It’s not a way to earn favor with God: Jesus already secured that.
- It’s not about suffering for the sake of suffering: It’s about connection.
If fasting doesn’t bring you closer to God, it’s just a hunger strike.
Final Thoughts: Jesus Redefines Fasting
In Matthew 9, Jesus makes one thing crystal clear: fasting is about Him. It’s about longing for the presence of the Bridegroom. It’s a spiritual discipline that helps align your heart with His.
You don’t fast because you’re trying to follow rules—you fast because you want more of Jesus.
So the next time you consider fasting, don’t ask, “What should I give up?” Ask, “What am I hungry for?”
Because the answer should always be: more of Him.
Quick Recap
- ✅ Fasting is a spiritual discipline, not a religious checklist.
- ✅ Jesus expects His followers to fast—but with the right heart.
- ✅ True fasting is always connected to your relationship with Him.
- ✅ Don’t fast to impress—fast to seek.
- ✅ Use Matthew 9 as a lens: The Bridegroom is the center of it all.
If this helped you understand fasting in a new way, take the next step. Ask God what He wants to do in your life through fasting. You might be surprised how powerful it can be when it’s done His way.
Let me know if you want a sample prayer or fasting plan—I’ve got you covered.
Fasting as a Spiritual Discipline: What Jesus Teaches in Matthew 9 — 10 FAQs
1. What does Jesus say about fasting in Matthew 9?
In Matthew 9:14-15, Jesus explains that fasting isn’t appropriate while He (the bridegroom) is present with His disciples. However, He says a time will come when they will fast—after He is gone. It highlights fasting as a response to His absence, not a ritual.
2. Why weren’t Jesus’ disciples fasting like others?
Jesus says His presence was a time of joy, not mourning. His disciples didn’t fast because they were with Him. Once He was taken away, fasting would become a way to seek Him spiritually.
3. Is fasting still necessary for Christians today?
Yes, but not as a religious rule. Jesus expects His followers to fast (Matthew 6:16 says “when you fast”, not “if”), but it should come from a desire to seek God, not obligation or tradition.
4. What does fasting mean spiritually?
Spiritually, fasting is a discipline that helps you humble yourself, focus on God, and seek His presence more deeply. It disconnects you from the world so you can reconnect with God.
5. What’s the meaning of the bridegroom analogy in Matthew 9?
Jesus calls Himself the “bridegroom” to show that His presence is joyful—like a wedding celebration. Fasting was tied to sorrow or longing, which didn’t fit while He was physically present.
6. How should I fast according to Jesus?
Matthew 6:16–18 teaches that fasting should be private and sincere. You shouldn’t look miserable or try to get attention. God sees what’s done in secret and rewards your heart, not your image.
7. What kind of fast should I start with?
Start small. You could skip one meal, fast from sunrise to sunset, or avoid certain foods or distractions. The key is not the method—it’s the intention behind it.
8. What should I pray for while fasting?
Pray for clarity, spiritual renewal, repentance, guidance, or a deeper connection with Jesus. Let your hunger for food remind you of your greater hunger for God.
9. Can fasting be harmful or misused?
Yes. If done for the wrong reasons—like seeking attention, punishing yourself, or trying to earn God’s favor—it becomes unhealthy or even spiritually empty. Fasting is not a performance.
10. What’s the main takeaway from Matthew 9 about fasting?
Fasting isn’t about rules—it’s about relationship. Jesus teaches that fasting is appropriate when we long for Him, not when we’re trying to look religious. It’s a response to our spiritual hunger for more of Christ.
