In the New Testament, the topic of fasting arises in several instances, notably when Jesus is questioned about the practice by the disciples of John the Baptist and the Pharisees. This encounter is recorded in the Synoptic Gospels: Matthew 9:14-17, Mark 2:18-22, and Luke 5:33-39. These passages provide insight into Jesus' teachings on fasting and its place within the new covenant He was establishing.

Context and Setting

The questioning of Jesus about fasting occurs during His ministry in Galilee. At this time, fasting was a common religious practice among Jews, often associated with mourning, repentance, and seeking God's favor. The Pharisees, known for their strict adherence to the Law, practiced fasting regularly, typically twice a week (Luke 18:12). John's disciples, following the ascetic lifestyle of their teacher, also engaged in fasting.

The Question

In Matthew 9:14 , the inquiry is presented: "Then the disciples of John came to Him and asked, 'Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?'" This question highlights a perceived inconsistency between the practices of Jesus' followers and those of other devout Jews.

Jesus' Response

Jesus responds with a metaphor that emphasizes the appropriateness of fasting in relation to His presence. In Matthew 9:15 , He says, "Jesus replied, 'Can the wedding guests mourn while the bridegroom is with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.'" Here, Jesus identifies Himself as the bridegroom, and His presence as a time of joy and celebration, akin to a wedding feast. Fasting, associated with mourning, would be inappropriate while He is with them. However, He acknowledges that a time will come when fasting will be appropriate, referring to His future departure.

Parables of the Garment and Wineskins

To further illustrate His point, Jesus uses two parables. In Matthew 9:16-17 , He states, "No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, and a worse tear will result. Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will spill and the wineskins will be ruined. Instead, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved."

These parables signify the transformative nature of Jesus' ministry and the new covenant He brings. The old garment and old wineskins represent the established religious practices and structures, which cannot contain the new life and teachings Jesus offers. The new wine and new wineskins symbolize the fresh, dynamic work of God through Christ, requiring new forms and expressions of faith.

Theological Implications

Jesus' response to the question about fasting underscores the shift from the old covenant to the new. His presence inaugurates a new era in which traditional practices are re-evaluated in light of His mission and message. Fasting, while still a valuable spiritual discipline, is redefined in the context of the joy and fulfillment found in Christ.

This passage also highlights the importance of discernment in religious practice. Jesus teaches that spiritual disciplines should align with the realities of God's work and presence. The anticipation of His return and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit guide the practice of fasting in the life of believers today.

Conclusion

The questioning of Jesus about fasting reveals the transformative nature of His ministry and the new covenant He establishes. Through His response, Jesus teaches that spiritual practices must be understood in the context of His presence and mission, inviting believers to embrace the new life He offers.