Understanding the Bible often means diving into the context and culture behind its verses.
When you come across Luke 5:35, it can be a bit puzzling if you don’t have the background.
In this article, we’re going to break down this verse and see what Jesus was getting at.
So, let’s dive right in and explore what Luke 5:35 means and how it fits into the larger narrative of the Bible.
The Verse in Context
First, let’s read Luke 5:35:
“But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; in those days they will fast.” (Luke 5:35, NIV)
At first glance, this verse might seem out of place or confusing.
To understand it, we need to look at the broader conversation happening in Luke 5.
The Surrounding Story
In Luke 5:33-39, Jesus is questioned by the Pharisees and the teachers of the law about why His disciples aren’t fasting like the disciples of John the Baptist and the Pharisees.
Fasting was a common religious practice, symbolizing repentance and humility before God. But Jesus’ disciples were not following this tradition at the time.
Jesus’ Response
Jesus responds with a metaphor involving a wedding party.
He asks if the guests at a wedding can be expected to fast while the bridegroom is with them.
This is where verse 35 comes in.
Jesus is essentially saying, “It’s not appropriate to mourn (fast) when the reason for joy (the bridegroom, or Jesus Himself) is present.
But there will come a time when the bridegroom will be taken away, and then fasting will be appropriate.”
Breaking Down the Metaphor
The Bridegroom
In Jewish culture, a wedding was a joyous and festive occasion.
The bridegroom is central to this celebration.
Here, Jesus refers to Himself as the bridegroom.
This isn’t the only time He uses this imagery.
In Matthew 9:15, Jesus uses similar language, reinforcing that He is the bridegroom and His presence is a cause for celebration.
The Wedding Guests
The disciples are the wedding guests.
Their time with Jesus is a time of joy and learning.
Jesus implies that it would be inappropriate for them to fast, a practice associated with mourning and repentance, while He is with them.
It’s like asking wedding guests to fast during the feast – it doesn’t fit the situation.
The Future Fasting
The phrase, “when the bridegroom will be taken from them,” hints at a future time when Jesus will no longer be physically present.
This alludes to His eventual crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension.
After Jesus’ departure, the disciples would fast as part of their spiritual practices, mourning His physical absence and seeking guidance and strength.
The Deeper Meaning
Jesus and Joy
Jesus’ response highlights a profound truth: His presence brings joy.
While He was with His disciples, there was no need for the sorrowful practice of fasting.
This indicates that Jesus’ mission is to bring joy and salvation, contrasting with the traditional view of religion that often focused on rituals and somber observance.
A New Era
Jesus’ reference to fasting after His departure also signals a shift in how His followers would relate to God.
Fasting, in this new context, would be a way to express longing for Jesus’ return and a means to draw closer to God in a deep, personal way.
It reflects a shift from old religious practices to a new, more intimate relationship with God.
The Prophetic Hint
Additionally, Jesus is subtly preparing His disciples for the time when He won’t be with them physically.
This forward-looking statement prepares them for the reality of His death and resurrection.
It’s a gentle way of saying that things will change, and they need to be ready for it.
Applying Luke 5:35 Today
Embracing Joy in Christ
Today, we can take from Luke 5:35 the idea that being close to Jesus is a source of immense joy.
As Christians, we’re called to live in the joy of knowing Christ, much like the wedding guests celebrating with the bridegroom.
Understanding Fasting
Fasting remains a significant practice in Christianity, but its purpose has evolved.
It’s less about adhering to tradition and more about creating space for spiritual growth and seeking God’s presence.
When we fast, it’s an expression of our desire to be close to Jesus, even though He isn’t physically present.
Looking Forward to His Return
Jesus’ promise that there will be times when His followers will fast reminds us to live with the expectation of His return.
Fasting can be a way to express our hope and longing for Christ’s second coming, reflecting a heart that’s eagerly waiting for the bridegroom to return.
Conclusion
Luke 5:35 encapsulates a profound truth about Jesus’ presence and the appropriate response to it.
Jesus used the imagery of a wedding to teach that His presence is a time for joy and celebration. However,
He also acknowledged that there would be times of longing and preparation when He’s no longer physically present.
As we reflect on this verse, let’s embrace the joy of knowing Christ and understand the deeper purpose behind practices like fasting.
Whether we’re celebrating His presence or yearning for His return, Luke 5:35 reminds us to stay connected to the heart of our faith – a relationship with Jesus that transcends traditions and rituals.
FAQs About Luke 5:35
1. What is the main message of Luke 5:35?
Luke 5:35 conveys the message that Jesus’ presence brings joy, likened to a wedding celebration with the bridegroom.
When He’s with His disciples, it’s a time for joy and not for fasting.
However, Jesus also hints at a future time when He will no longer be physically present, and then His followers will fast.
2. Who is the bridegroom in Luke 5:35?
In Luke 5:35, the bridegroom is a metaphor for Jesus.
By referring to Himself as the bridegroom, Jesus is emphasizing that His presence brings joy and celebration, much like a wedding feast.
3. Why did Jesus’ disciples not fast while He was with them?
Jesus’ disciples didn’t fast because His presence was a time of joy and learning.
Fasting, associated with mourning and repentance, was not fitting while they were in the joyful company of Jesus, the bridegroom.
4. What did Jesus mean by “the bridegroom will be taken from them”?
Jesus was alluding to His eventual crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension.
This phrase foretells the time when He would no longer be physically present with His disciples, after which fasting would be appropriate as they mourned His absence and sought to draw closer to God.
5. How does Luke 5:35 relate to Christian practices today?
Today, Luke 5:35 reminds Christians that being close to Jesus brings joy.
It also highlights that fasting can be a meaningful practice to express our longing for Jesus and deepen our relationship with God, especially as we await His return.
6. What does fasting signify in the context of Luke 5:35?
In the context of Luke 5:35, fasting signifies a time of mourning and spiritual seeking that is appropriate when Jesus is not physically present.
It’s a practice that helps believers express their longing for Jesus and grow closer to God in His absence.
7. Why did Jesus use the wedding analogy in Luke 5:35?
Jesus used the wedding analogy to convey the joy and celebration that should accompany His presence.
Weddings are joyous occasions, and comparing His presence to a wedding feast helped His listeners understand that His time with them was meant to be joyful, not sorrowful.
8. What lesson can we learn from Luke 5:35?
We learn that Jesus’ presence is a source of great joy and that there’s a time and place for different spiritual practices.
While we celebrate and find joy in knowing Jesus, we also recognize the importance of fasting and seeking God, especially as we anticipate Jesus’ return.
9. How can we apply the teachings of Luke 5:35 to our daily lives?
We can apply the teachings of Luke 5:35 by embracing the joy that comes from our relationship with Jesus and using practices like fasting to deepen our spiritual connection with God.
This verse encourages us to balance joy and reflection in our faith journey.
10. What does Jesus’ reference to the bridegroom reveal about His mission?
Jesus’ reference to Himself as the bridegroom reveals that His mission is to bring joy and salvation.
It underscores that His presence is a cause for celebration and highlights the transformative impact of His life and ministry on those who follow Him.
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