Luke 5:35

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

Context:In this verse, Jesus is responding to a question raised by the Pharisees and the disciples of John the Baptist regarding fasting. Jesus explains that fasting will be appropriate for His disciples after His departure, indicating a time of mourning and expectation.

Symbolism of the Bridegroom:Jesus refers to Himself as the “bridegroom” in this verse. This metaphor is used throughout the New Testament to illustrate the relationship between Christ and His followers, with the Church being referred to as the bride. The bridegroom represents Jesus’ presence and companionship with His disciples.

Foreshadowing His Death:Jesus predicts His own death and subsequent absence in this verse. He refers to a time when He will be taken away from His disciples, referring to His crucifixion and subsequent resurrection. This statement serves as a prophecy of the events that were to come.

The Significance of Fasting:Jesus mentions that His disciples will fast in those days when the bridegroom is taken away. Fasting, in this context, represents a time of mourning, repentance, and spiritual preparation. Just as a bridegroom’s absence would lead to sadness and fasting, so would the disciples’ experience a sense of loss and longing during Jesus’ absence.

The Transition to the New Covenant:Jesus’ statement about fasting in the future also indicates a transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant. In the Old Testament, fasting was often associated with mourning, repentance, and seeking God’s favour. However, with the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, the focus shifted to rejoicing and celebration in His presence. Yet, after Jesus’ death and resurrection, His disciples would enter a period of fasting as they awaited the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the establishment of the Church.

Lessons for Believers:This verse teaches believers several important lessons:

• a. Anticipation: It reminds believers to eagerly anticipate the second coming of Christ when He will return to establish His eternal kingdom.
• b. Mourning and Fasting: It emphasises the importance of recognising and mourning the absence of Christ in our lives, particularly in times of hardship, and seeking Him through fasting, prayer, and repentance.
• c. Trust and Hope: It encourages believers to trust in God’s plan, even when they can’t physically see or experience the presence of Christ, and to hold onto the hope of His promised return.

In conclusion, Luke 5:35 conveys Jesus’ prediction of His own death and the subsequent fasting that His disciples would observe during His absence. It highlights the importance of anticipating His return, mourning His absence, and seeking Him through fasting, prayer, and repentance.