How to Fast: Two Models

The speaker begins by expressing gratitude for the community and the encouragement they receive from gathering together, even when the teachings aren't new to them. This message is part of a six-week series on reclaiming biblical fasting, and this is week three, focusing on how to fast.

Recap of Previous Weeks:

1. Week 1: Jesus expects his disciples to fast (Matthew 6).

2. Week 2: Seven motivations for fasting.

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Week 3: How to Fast

Two Models of Fasting:

1. Food Fasting

2. Non-Food Fasting

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1. Food Fasting

Biblical examples show a wide range:

• Jesus: 40 days, no food.

• Daniel: Ate only vegetables.

• Esther: No food or water for 3 days.

• Nazarites: Gave up wine and grape products.

• 1 Corinthians 7: Couples abstained from intimacy.

Three Levels of Food Fasting:

• Complete Fast: No food or water (e.g., Esther, Paul).

• Normal Fast: No food, water only (most common).

• Partial Fast: Limited diet (e.g., Daniel).

How to Start a Food Fast:

1. Choose your level (complete, normal, partial).

2. Determine the time (e.g., one meal, one day, multiple days).

3. Keep your normal schedule.

4. End with gratitude (appreciate the return to food).

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2. Non-Food Fasting

Based on the Nazarite vow (Numbers 6):

• Anyone could participate.

• They abstained from wine and grape products.

• The time was self-determined.

• They marked the time (e.g., not cutting hair).

• If broken, the fast restarted.

How to Start a Non-Food Fast:

1. Choose a non-essential (e.g., social media, sugar, shopping).

2. Set an end date.

3. Mark the time (calendar, physical reminder).

4. Start over if needed (build accountability).

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Key Takeaways:

• Fasting is flexible and personal.

• It can be adapted to health, lifestyle, and spiritual goals.

• The goal is dedication to God, not suffering.

• Next topics: connecting fasting to Scripture (Deuteronomy 8), how not to fast (Isaiah 58), and the joy of feasting.

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