Fasting isn’t always required, and in Matthew 9, Jesus makes that clear. When questioned about why His disciples weren’t fasting like others, He responded with a powerful truth: fasting is about timing and relationship, not just religious routine. Jesus compared Himself to a bridegroom—while He was present, it was a time to celebrate, not mourn. His point? Fasting isn’t a rule to follow but a response to your spiritual season and desire for deeper connection with God.
This perspective shifts fasting from obligation to invitation. It’s not about impressing others or checking a spiritual box. It’s about drawing near to God when your heart needs clarity, renewal, or breakthrough. Whether you’re navigating decisions, feeling spiritually dry, or just longing for more of God, fasting can be a meaningful tool. Keep reading to understand how to fast wisely, when it’s most helpful, and how to align it with your walk with Jesus.
Fasting has been a spiritual practice for thousands of years. In the Bible, it’s often linked with repentance, prayer, and seeking God. But is it always necessary? In Matthew 9, Jesus gives a surprising answer that challenges traditional views. If you’ve ever wondered whether fasting is a spiritual requirement or something more situational, you’re not alone.
Let’s unpack what Jesus actually said and what it means for us today.
What Happens in Matthew 9?
In Matthew 9:14-17, some followers of John the Baptist ask Jesus a direct question:
“Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?” — Matthew 9:14 (NIV)
Seems like a fair question. Both John’s disciples and the Pharisees were known for strict fasting. It was a big deal in Jewish tradition. Yet Jesus’ disciples weren’t fasting. Why not?
Here’s how Jesus responds:
“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.” — Matthew 9:15
This single verse gives us a lot to think about.
Jesus’ Main Point: Fasting Is About Timing and Presence
Jesus uses a wedding metaphor. He refers to Himself as the bridegroom and His disciples as guests at the wedding. The logic is simple:
- At a wedding, guests celebrate. They don’t mourn.
- As long as Jesus (the bridegroom) is with them, it’s a time of joy.
- But when He’s taken away (referring to His death), then they will fast.
So, is fasting necessary?
Yes — but not always. Jesus isn’t against fasting. He’s showing that fasting isn’t a box to check off. It’s a response to your relationship with God and your spiritual season.
Key Takeaways from Jesus’ Response
1. Fasting Isn’t a Rule — It’s a Response
Jesus didn’t say, “Don’t fast.” He said fasting makes sense when the time is right. That changes the whole mindset. It’s not about fasting to appear holy (like the Pharisees), but fasting because your heart is moved to seek God deeply.
2. Spiritual Disciplines Must Fit the Season
Jesus adds this analogy in Matthew 9:16-17:
“No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment… Nor do people pour new wine into old wineskins…”
What’s He saying? Basically:
- You can’t force old practices onto something new without causing damage.
- Jesus was bringing something new — a new covenant, a new way of relating to God.
He wasn’t rejecting fasting. He was reframing it to fit the new life He was introducing.
When Should You Fast?
There’s no single formula. But Jesus’ teaching shows that fasting is helpful — and necessary — when your heart needs it.
Here are some biblical reasons for fasting:
1. To Seek God’s Guidance
In Acts 13:2-3, the early church fasted and prayed before sending out Paul and Barnabas.
2. To Prepare for Ministry
Jesus Himself fasted for 40 days before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-2).
3. To Express Grief or Repentance
In Joel 2:12, God says, “Return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”
4. To Draw Near to God
Fasting removes distractions. It’s not about punishment. It’s about sharpening your focus on God.
Fasting vs. Legalism: What Jesus Warns Against
The Pharisees fasted twice a week (Luke 18:12), but often with pride. Jesus was clear: fasting without the right heart is useless.
In Matthew 6:16-18, He says:
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so it won’t be obvious to others that you’re fasting, but only to your Father.”
In other words, if you’re fasting to show off, don’t bother.
What About Now? Should Christians Fast Today?
Absolutely — but with the right mindset.
We no longer fast to fulfill religious law. We fast because:
- We want to hear God more clearly.
- We feel spiritually dry or disconnected.
- We’re burdened by something and need clarity or breakthrough.
It’s about connection, not performance.
4 Signs It Might Be Time for You to Fast
Here’s when fasting can be especially powerful:
- You feel spiritually stuck or distant from God.
- You’re facing a major decision and need guidance.
- You’re overwhelmed and want to re-center your priorities.
- You sense God calling you to go deeper with Him.
If any of these hit home, consider fasting — whether it’s food, social media, entertainment, or anything else that helps you clear space for God.
What Kind of Fast Should You Do?
Fasting doesn’t have to mean no food at all. There are several ways to fast:
– Full Fast: No food, only water (often done for 1–3 days).
– Partial Fast: Like the Daniel Fast — only fruits, vegetables, and water (Daniel 10:2-3).
– Intermittent Fast: Skip one or two meals a day to focus on prayer.
– Non-Food Fast: Give up something else — like social media, TV, or your phone for a set time.
Start small. The point isn’t how extreme it is — it’s about focusing on God.
The Bottom Line
So, is fasting always necessary?
No. Jesus made it clear in Matthew 9 that fasting isn’t about obligation. It’s about intimacy and timing. You fast when you’re longing for more of God, when you need direction, or when your heart is heavy. It’s not a show or a checklist.
But when you fast with the right heart — even a small fast — it can lead to huge spiritual breakthroughs.
Quick Summary
| Key Point | What Jesus Said |
| Fasting isn’t always required | “How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them?” (Matt. 9:15) |
| Timing matters | “Then they will fast.” — After He’s gone |
| Spiritual disciplines need new perspective | “You don’t put new wine in old wineskins.” (Matt. 9:17) |
Final Thought
Jesus didn’t cancel fasting. He redefined it. He invites you to fast not because you have to, but because you want more of Him.
So ask yourself: Is now a season for fasting? Not out of guilt — but out of hunger for God.
And if the answer is yes, He’ll meet you there.
Let me know if you want a printable guide or fasting plan to get started.
FAQs: Is Fasting Always Necessary? Understanding Jesus’ Perspective in Matthew 9
1. What does Matthew 9 say about fasting?
In Matthew 9:14–15, Jesus explains that fasting isn’t always necessary. He says His disciples don’t need to fast while He is with them (the bridegroom), but a time will come when they will fast. It shows that fasting depends on spiritual timing and context.
2. Why weren’t Jesus’ disciples fasting like others?
Jesus explained that His presence brought joy, like a wedding celebration. Since fasting was often associated with mourning or seeking God in absence, it wasn’t needed while He was physically with them.
3. Does Jesus reject fasting altogether in Matthew 9?
No, Jesus doesn’t reject fasting. He redefines its purpose. He says, “Then they will fast,” showing that fasting has its place, but only when it’s spiritually appropriate.
4. What does the “bridegroom” metaphor mean in Matthew 9?
Jesus refers to Himself as the bridegroom. Just like wedding guests don’t mourn when the groom is with them, His disciples didn’t need to fast while He was present. It’s a metaphor for joy and closeness to God.
5. How should Christians approach fasting today?
Christians should fast as a response to spiritual need, not as a duty. Whether you’re seeking guidance, repentance, or deeper connection with God, fasting is a way to focus and draw near to Him.
6. Is fasting a commandment for Christians?
Fasting isn’t a commandment, but it’s a biblical practice Jesus assumes His followers will do. In Matthew 6:16, He says, “When you fast,” not “if you fast,” implying it’s expected but not legalistic.
7. What kinds of fasting are there for believers today?
Types include full fasts (water only), partial fasts (like the Daniel Fast), intermittent fasting (skipping meals), and non-food fasts (social media, entertainment, etc.). The goal is to create space for spiritual focus.
8. Can you fast for the wrong reasons?
Yes. Jesus warns in Matthew 6 not to fast for show or praise. If it’s about attention or spiritual pride, it misses the point. Fasting should be private and sincere.
9. When is the right time to fast spiritually?
When you feel distant from God, need clarity, face a major decision, or are seeking breakthrough. Fasting should match your spiritual season and hunger for God—not just tradition.
10. What’s the main takeaway from Matthew 9 on fasting?
Fasting isn’t always necessary. It’s about timing and relationship. Jesus invites us to fast when we need more of God, not just to follow rules. It’s a tool for spiritual connection, not religious performance.
