Humility - Online

Intro

What is Fasting?: Before we jump into our passage today, I just want to open up with just explaining what fasting is for those who may not know what this is. In current society, you will see all different types of fasting for a bunch of different reasons.

History of fasting:

OT -

NT -

Fasting is something that we still do today, it is the practice of abstaining from food. Fasting is something that is spoken about throughout scripture, but the thing is, through the time of the bible, the reason why to do it began to change. In the old testament fasting was something that one usually did accompanied with prayer and repentance, and was either done alone or done as a whole nation. But it was not till the New testament where we begin to see regular fasting by the pharisees, normally done twice a week. What was once a special act that was for times of prayer, repentance and emergency was distored to become a show of religous duty. Along with giving and prayer, it was assumed that the disciples also fasted. But it wasn’t whether or not to fast, it was how to fast, how to do it the right way.

V. 16

New Living Translation Chapter 6

“And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get.

V. 17-18

New Living Translation Chapter 6

17 But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. 18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.