Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8400 The tasks of the believer » 8429 fasting » 8432 fasting, practice of
Although fasting is a negative practice, it is not an end in itself but is to be undertaken for a positive purpose.
Fasting is not an end in itself
Fasting as empty ritual is condemned
Jeremiah 14:11-12 See also Isaiah 58:1-7; Zechariah 7:4-7
Fasting as mere show is condemned
Matthew 6:16-18 See also Matthew 9:14-15 pp Mark 2:18-20 pp Luke 5:33-35 Jesus Christ repudiated fasting for its own sake whilst granting that there is a time and a place for it.
Fasting imposed for false motives
1 Samuel 14:24-30
Attitudes appropriate to fasting
Humility
Psalm 35:13 See also 1 Kings 21:27-29; Ezra 8:21; Psalm 69:10
Repentance
1 Samuel 7:6 See also Nehemiah 9:1-3; Joel 1:13-14; Joel 2:12-15
Fasting and prayer
Nehemiah 1:4 See also Ezra 8:21-23; Psalm 35:13; Daniel 9:3; Matthew 17:20 fn pp Mark 9:29 fn; Luke 2:37; Luke 5:33; Acts 13:3; Acts 14:23; 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 The motivation here is similar to that in abstaining from food.
Fasting and worship
Acts 13:2 See also Luke 2:37
See also
6732 repentance 8620 prayer, practicalities 8622 worship
