Mark 2:20

But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.

Mark 2:20 (KJV)

Context

Jesus speaks here in response to a question about fasting. John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting, and people asked why Jesus’ disciples did not. Jesus answers with the picture of a wedding: the bridegroom’s attendants cannot fast while he is with them. In this verse, He looks ahead to the time when the bridegroom will be taken away.

Meaning

The bridegroom is Jesus Himself, and His being taken away points to His impending death and departure from His disciples. The disciples’ fasting would be a natural response to His absence, a time of mourning and anticipation of loss. This is not a command to fast at set times but a prophecy that sorrow and fasting would follow His crucifixion.

Biblical connections

The same teaching appears in Matthew 9:15 and Luke 5:35, confirming its importance in the Gospel tradition. The verses that follow, Mark 2:21-22, use the parables of unshrunk cloth and new wine in old wineskins to show that Jesus’ coming introduces something new that cannot be contained within old forms.

Application

This verse reminds believers to value the presence of Christ and to be prepared for seasons of waiting and longing. Fasting remains a fitting response in times of mourning and spiritual need, and it expresses our dependence on God when we sense Christ’s absence.

Reflection

Jesus’ physical presence on earth was temporary, and His departure was necessary for the salvation He came to bring. His followers would mourn, but the promise of His return gives hope. In seasons of waiting, we are called to remain steadfast in faith, trusting that the bridegroom will come again.