Fasting, according to Jesus in Matthew 9, isn’t about religious performance—it’s about relationship. When questioned why His disciples didn’t fast like others, Jesus explained that His presence was like a wedding celebration, a time for joy, not mourning. He introduced a new way of thinking about fasting: it’s not about rigid rules but about longing for His presence after He’s “taken away.” This shifts fasting from obligation to desire—from external show to internal hunger for more of God.
Jesus also made it clear that trying to fit this new way of relating to God into old religious systems doesn’t work. Fasting should be Spirit-led, humble, and centered on Christ—not done to impress others or earn points with God. If you’ve ever wondered how to fast in a meaningful, biblically sound way, or what Jesus really taught about it, keep reading. The deeper insights might change the way you pursue God.
Fasting is one of those spiritual disciplines that shows up all over the Bible. People fasted before big decisions, during times of grief, or when they were seeking God’s guidance. But in Matthew 9, Jesus shifts the conversation about fasting in a way that’s easy to miss—but incredibly important.
If you’ve ever wondered what fasting means for Christians today, especially in light of Jesus’ own words, Matthew 9 is the place to start. Let’s walk through what Jesus says and why it matters for your spiritual life.
Setting the Scene: 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)
This is a fair question. The Pharisees and even John the Baptist’s followers practiced regular fasting. It was a sign of piety and religious devotion. But Jesus’ disciples weren’t fasting. That raised eyebrows.
Jesus’ Response: A Radical Redefinition
Jesus answers in a way that flips their expectations upside down:
“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 (ESV)
Let’s break that down:
1. Jesus Calls Himself the Bridegroom
In Jewish tradition, a wedding was a time of joy, celebration, and feasting—not fasting. Jesus compares His presence with the disciples to a wedding. You don’t fast at a wedding. It would be totally inappropriate. This is a huge shift from the legalistic fasting of the Pharisees.
By calling Himself the “bridegroom,” Jesus is also revealing something bigger: He’s God’s promised Messiah, and His coming is a time of joy, not mourning.
2. There Will Be a Time to Fast
Jesus doesn’t throw out fasting altogether. He says, “The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away… and then they will fast.” That points to His death, resurrection, and eventual ascension.
So yes, fasting still has a place. But it’s not about checking religious boxes. It’s about longing for the presence of Jesus and depending on Him fully.
The Deeper Meaning: New Wine in New Wineskins
Jesus keeps going:
“No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment… Neither is new wine put into old wineskins…” — Matthew 9:16-17 (ESV)
He’s using everyday objects to make a spiritual point. Here’s what He means:
- Old wineskins = old religious systems (like Pharisaic fasting rules)
- New wine = the new life and teaching Jesus brings
Trying to fit Jesus into an old system of rigid rules doesn’t work. He’s offering something completely new—a relationship that’s based on grace, not ritual.
What This Means for You Today
So, what’s the takeaway? Here are four clear truths about fasting based on what Jesus teaches in Matthew 9.
1. Fasting Isn’t About Earning Points with God
This is big. Jesus never treats fasting like a spiritual scoreboard. If you fast just to prove how serious you are, you’re missing the point. God isn’t impressed by suffering for the sake of appearances.
2. Fasting Is About Relationship
The whole point of Jesus’ “bridegroom” analogy is this: fasting expresses a longing for intimacy with Him. When He’s gone (like now, between His first and second coming), fasting becomes a way of saying, “Jesus, I want more of you.”
3. Fasting Should Be Spirit-Led, Not Rule-Driven
The Pharisees fasted twice a week (see Luke 18:12), and they expected others to do the same. Jesus never told His disciples to follow that routine. That’s because true fasting isn’t about rigid schedules. It’s about being led by the Spirit.
If you’re fasting just because someone told you to—or because you think you have to—you’re putting new wine in old wineskins.
4. Fasting Is Still Powerful—When Done Right
Jesus doesn’t cancel fasting. He just reframes it. When done with the right heart, fasting can:
- Increase spiritual clarity
- Deepen your prayer life
- Expose hidden idols
- Create space to hear God clearly
But it has to be done for the right reasons.
Practical Tips: How to Fast Like Jesus Taught
If you want to start fasting in a way that aligns with what Jesus says in Matthew 9, here’s how:
1. Start Small
You don’t need to begin with a 3-day water-only fast. Try skipping one meal or fasting for a few hours. Let it grow from there.
2. Make It About Jesus
This is the core. Don’t just abstain from food. Spend that time in prayer, worship, or reading Scripture. Focus on Jesus, not your hunger.
3. Keep It Private
Jesus says in Matthew 6:17-18:
“When you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others…”
In other words, don’t show off. Fasting is between you and God.
4. Ask the Holy Spirit to Lead You
Each fast can look different. Sometimes you fast for guidance, sometimes for breakthrough, sometimes just to draw near. Let God shape it.
Examples of Fasting in the Bible
To see how fasting shows up throughout Scripture, check out these examples:
- Jesus fasted 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–2) — preparation for ministry.
- Ezra fasted for protection (Ezra 8:21–23) — seeking God’s hand over their journey.
- Daniel fasted for understanding (Daniel 10:2–3) — a partial fast, avoiding rich food.
- The early church fasted before sending out missionaries (Acts 13:2–3).
Fasting has always been a way of humbling ourselves before God. But through Jesus, we now do it in the light of grace, not law.
Final Thoughts: Jesus Redefines Fasting
Fasting isn’t about looking spiritual. It’s about desiring more of Jesus.
In Matthew 9, Jesus isn’t saying fasting doesn’t matter anymore. He’s saying the reason behind it matters more than the ritual. It’s not about mourning over sin just for the sake of feeling bad. It’s about longing for the presence of Christ in a broken world.
So, if you’re thinking about fasting—or wondering why it matters—start by asking: Do I want more of Jesus? If the answer is yes, then fasting can be a powerful tool to draw closer to Him.
Quick Recap
- Matthew 9:14-17 is Jesus’ key teaching on fasting.
- Fasting isn’t about rules—it’s about relationship.
- Jesus calls Himself the “bridegroom,” redefining the timing and purpose of fasting.
- You fast now because you miss His presence and long for His return.
- Let fasting be Spirit-led, humble, and Christ-focused.
Fasting isn’t about proving something. It’s about seeking someone. And that someone is Jesus.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into your walk with God, fasting might be one of the most powerful ways to do it—just make sure your heart’s in the right place.
Want to learn more about other spiritual disciplines Jesus taught? Let me know—I’d be happy to help.
FAQs: The Spiritual Significance of Fasting According to Jesus in Matthew 9
1. What is the spiritual significance of fasting according to Jesus in Matthew 9?
Jesus teaches that fasting isn’t about following rules but about longing for His presence. In Matthew 9, He compares Himself to a bridegroom, showing that fasting is meaningful when He’s absent and we desire deeper connection with Him.
2. Why didn’t Jesus’ disciples fast in Matthew 9?
Jesus said His disciples didn’t fast because He—the bridegroom—was with them. It wasn’t a time for mourning or self-denial but for joy. He made it clear that fasting would be appropriate after He was taken away.
3. Does Jesus say fasting is unnecessary in Matthew 9?
No, Jesus doesn’t cancel fasting. He redefines it. In Matthew 9, He says His followers will fast once He’s gone, but it must be rooted in love for Him, not religious obligation.
4. What does the “bridegroom” analogy mean in Matthew 9?
Jesus uses the bridegroom analogy to show that His presence brings joy. Just like you wouldn’t fast at a wedding, His disciples didn’t fast while He was with them. It highlights the relational aspect of fasting.
5. What are the “new wine” and “old wineskins” about in Matthew 9?
Jesus uses this metaphor to explain that the old religious systems (like legalistic fasting) can’t contain the new life He brings. True fasting must align with the Spirit-led, grace-filled life He offers.
6. How is Jesus’ view of fasting different from the Pharisees’?
The Pharisees fasted routinely to appear righteous. Jesus teaches in Matthew 9 that fasting should come from a heart that longs for Him—not to impress others or check a box.
7. Is fasting still relevant for Christians today?
Yes. Jesus says His followers will fast after His departure. For Christians today, fasting is a powerful spiritual practice that deepens prayer, sharpens focus, and expresses hunger for God.
8. How should Christians fast according to Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 9?
Fasting should be Spirit-led, private, and centered on seeking Jesus. It’s not about ritual but relationship. You should fast to grow closer to Him—not to fulfill tradition or prove devotion.
9. What kind of fasts are found in the Bible?
The Bible includes total fasts, partial fasts, and fasts for specific purposes. In Matthew 4, Jesus fasted 40 days. Daniel fasted by avoiding rich food. The early church fasted when seeking direction.
10. How can I start fasting in a biblical way?
Start small—maybe skip one meal—and use that time to pray and focus on Jesus. Make it about desiring Him, not punishing yourself. Follow the principles Jesus outlines in Matthew 9: humility, joy, and purpose.
