In Matthew 9, Jesus reshapes how we think about fasting—not as a legalistic duty, but as a meaningful practice rooted in relationship with Him. He explains that fasting is appropriate in seasons of longing and spiritual need, especially when He is “taken away,” rather than a constant ritual to earn favor or impress others. This teaches the church that fasting should flow naturally from our connection with Jesus and be timed according to our spiritual seasons, rather than forced as a mere tradition.
By following Jesus’ example, the church can move away from empty routines and embrace fasting as a joyful, purposeful act that leads to spiritual growth, compassion, and deeper intimacy with God. If you want to understand how fasting can transform your personal faith and church community, keep reading for a deeper dive into practical applications and insights from Scripture that will help you fast in a way that truly honors Jesus.
Fasting is a spiritual discipline many churches practice, but how often do we stop to ask why Jesus approached fasting the way He did? In Matthew 9, Jesus offers a fresh perspective that challenges common assumptions and guides us toward a healthier, more effective understanding of fasting. If you want to grasp what the church can learn from Jesus about fasting, this article is for you. Let’s dive deep into Matthew 9 and unpack Jesus’ approach step-by-step.
1. The Context: Understanding Matthew 9
First, it helps to set the scene. Matthew 9 shows Jesus responding to questions about why His disciples aren’t fasting like the Pharisees. The Pharisees fasted regularly and publicly, following strict religious traditions. Jesus’ disciples, however, didn’t fast at that time.
Look at what Jesus says in Matthew 9:14-15 (NIV):
“Then John’s disciples came and asked him, ‘How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?’ Jesus answered, ‘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.’”
This is crucial. Jesus isn’t rejecting fasting; He’s reframing it. His presence changes the meaning and timing of fasting.
2. Fasting Isn’t About Following Rules — It’s About Relationship
The Pharisees fasted to appear holy and earn God’s favor. But Jesus highlights something different: fasting is connected to relationship, not just ritual.
- The phrase “guests of the bridegroom” refers to a joyful celebration.
- When Jesus (the bridegroom) is with them, fasting as mourning doesn’t fit.
- Fasting is meant for a time when the bridegroom isn’t physically present — it’s about longing and drawing closer in His absence.
Lesson for the Church: Fasting should flow out of your relationship with Jesus, not out of obligation or to impress others.
3. Timing Matters: Fast in the Right Season
Jesus tells us the timing of fasting is important. In Matthew 9:15, He says fasting will happen when He is taken away (referring to His death and resurrection).
This teaches us:
- Fasting is not just a habit to do regularly without thought.
- It’s a spiritual tool for seasons of waiting, repentance, or seeking God intensely.
- When you’re in a season of joy and closeness with Jesus, fasting may not be necessary.
Tip: Reflect on your spiritual season before fasting. Is it a time to celebrate God’s presence, or a time to seek Him more deeply through fasting?
4. Fasting as a Means, Not an End
Jesus also emphasizes that fasting is not about changing God’s mind or proving your piety. Instead, it’s about preparing your heart and aligning your spirit with God’s will.
Consider Matthew 9:16-17, where Jesus uses the analogy of patching old clothes and putting new wine in old wineskins. This shows:
- You can’t just add fasting as an external practice without internal renewal.
- Fasting must fit the new life Jesus brings.
- Trying to force fasting into outdated traditions misses the point.
Takeaway: When you fast, focus on what God is doing in your life, not just on the act of fasting itself.
5. Fasting Should Lead to Spiritual Growth and Compassion
Jesus’ ministry was full of compassion, healing, and restoration. His approach to fasting reflects that it should fuel spiritual growth, not legalism.
Ask yourself:
- Does my fasting draw me closer to God and others?
- Does it soften my heart toward the hurting?
- Does it energize me to serve and love, or does it make me proud or judgmental?
If fasting doesn’t lead to love and growth, it misses the purpose Jesus modeled.
6. Practical Ways the Church Can Apply Jesus’ Teachings on Fasting
Here’s how your church can learn from Jesus’ approach to fasting today:
A. Focus on Relationship Over Ritual
- Teach fasting as a response to God’s presence, not just a checklist item.
- Encourage personal reflection on why someone is fasting.
- Promote fasting as a joyful anticipation of God’s work.
B. Understand and Respect the Timing
- Help your community recognize seasons for fasting and seasons for celebration.
- Don’t push fasting during times of joy or spiritual fullness.
- Use fasting in times of repentance, prayer, or decision-making.
C. Avoid Legalism and Show Grace
- Resist the urge to shame or compare fasting practices.
- Recognize different types of fasting (food, social media, habits) can be valuable.
- Emphasize the heart behind fasting, not the external act.
D. Connect Fasting to Spiritual Growth and Outreach
- Encourage fasting alongside acts of service and generosity.
- Use fasting times to pray for others and the community.
- Teach that fasting strengthens spiritual sensitivity and compassion.
7. Why This Matters for You and Your Church
You might wonder why it’s important to rethink fasting like this. The truth is, misunderstanding fasting can:
- Lead to burnout or disillusionment.
- Cause people to fast without meaning or connection.
- Create division or judgment within the church.
By following Jesus’ example in Matthew 9, you can help your church fast with purpose, joy, and impact. Your fasting becomes less about rules and more about deepening your walk with God.
8. Final Thoughts: Jesus’ Fasting is About Life and Freedom
Jesus invites us to a freedom-filled fasting — one that flows from relationship and leads to life. It’s not a burden but a blessing when done rightly.
Remember:
- Fasting is a gift for the seasons when you need it.
- It’s about inviting God deeper into your life.
- It’s an act of love, not just discipline.
So next time you think about fasting — whether as an individual or church — ask yourself: Am I fasting like a guest at a wedding, rejoicing in Jesus’ presence? Or am I fasting with a heart ready to seek Him more deeply in His absence?
That’s the lesson Matthew 9 teaches us.
If you want to dig deeper, try reading Matthew 9:14-17 alongside other fasting passages like Isaiah 58 and Joel 2. You’ll find even more wisdom on fasting’s purpose and power. And remember, the goal is always to grow closer to Jesus — not just to fast for fasting’s sake.
FAQs: What the Church Can Learn from Jesus’ Approach to Fasting in Matthew 9
1. What is the main lesson the church can learn from Jesus’ approach to fasting in Matthew 9?
The main lesson is that fasting should come from a genuine relationship with Jesus and be practiced in the right spiritual season—not as a legalistic ritual or to impress others.
2. Why didn’t Jesus’ disciples fast like the Pharisees in Matthew 9?
Jesus explains that His disciples didn’t fast because He, the “bridegroom,” was with them. Fasting is more appropriate during times of mourning or longing when He is absent.
3. How does Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 9 change the church’s view on fasting?
It shifts fasting from being a strict religious duty to a meaningful spiritual practice tied to relationship, timing, and inner renewal.
4. When does Jesus say fasting should take place according to Matthew 9?
Fasting should take place when Jesus, the bridegroom, is “taken away,” meaning during times of His physical absence or spiritual longing.
5. What does the analogy of new wine in old wineskins mean for fasting?
It means fasting must fit the new life Jesus brings and shouldn’t be forced into old traditions without internal transformation.
6. How should the church approach fasting to avoid legalism?
The church should emphasize the heart behind fasting, focus on personal relationship with God, and avoid comparing or judging others’ fasting practices.
7. Can fasting be done in different ways according to Jesus’ teachings?
Yes, fasting can take many forms beyond food—such as giving up habits or distractions—as long as it’s purposeful and draws you closer to God.
8. What role does compassion play in fasting based on Matthew 9?
Fasting should lead to spiritual growth and a softened heart toward others, inspiring acts of love and service.
9. How can the church know when it’s the right season to fast?
By prayerfully assessing whether they’re in a season of celebration with Jesus present or a season of seeking Him more deeply through fasting.
10. Why is Jesus’ approach to fasting relevant for today’s church?
Because it encourages a more joyful, relational, and effective practice of fasting that strengthens faith rather than burdens believers with empty rules.
