The Neglected One
A man that I met many years ago gave me this advice: “If you have trouble hearing the Lord, place both hands on the table and push.” In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus addressed fasting. Simply stated,
the purpose of fasting is to seek the Lord more intently—“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said …” (Acts 13:2) Fasting is denial of satisfying physical desires. In the Matthew passage, Jesus said, “When you fast” not if you fast. This indicates fasting to be a normal part of the spiritual life. Jesus Himself fasted for forty days in the wilderness. (See Matthew 4:2) In chapter 9 (vv. 14-17), we get Jesus’ perspective on fasting. Fasting was not a high priority in His earthly ministry, but He certainly expected it later—“The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” (v. 15) Based on that passage, fasting has been a very controversial issue in the church over the centuries. Fasting was often mentioned in the Old Testament, usually in connection with repentance and seeking God’s mercy. The New Testament indicates fasting as related to worship: Anna (Luke 2:37) and Cornelius (Acts 10:30). Fasting was a regular practice in Jesus’ time. In fact, two times a week apparently was typical among the Pharisees. (See Luke 18:12) When Jesus addressed fasting Matthew 6, He wasn’t discouraging it, even in public. His instruction was about motive. He called those wanting everyone to see how spiritual they live hypocrites. They are after man’s approval. God is never impressed with religious rituals—“The LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) God judges His servants by searching their hearts, examining their inner attitudes, and seeing deeds done in secret. You are responsible for the depth of your ministry; God will take care of its breadth.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.