Matthew 9:14

Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not?

Matthew 9:14 (KJV)

Context

The disciples of John the Baptist come to Jesus with a question about fasting. They have observed that both they and the Pharisees fast often, while Jesus’ disciples do not. Their inquiry reflects genuine confusion about the difference in practice, not hostility. The immediate setting is Jesus’ growing ministry, which has just included calling Matthew the tax collector and dining with sinners. John’s disciples, who practiced fasting as part of their devotion, do not yet fully understand the significance of Jesus’ presence and the new era He is inaugurating.

Meaning

Fasting is a spiritual discipline commonly practiced in Judaism, involving abstaining from food for a specific period. It serves purposes such as self-discipline, focusing on prayer, seeking God’s guidance, and expressing repentance or mourning. The phrase “fast oft” indicates a regular, repeated practice rather than an occasional one. The disciples of John and the Pharisees fasted frequently as part of their religious devotion, which makes the contrast with Jesus’ disciples all the more striking.

Jesus’ response reveals a significant shift in religious practice under the New Covenant. He uses the imagery of a wedding to explain that while the bridegroom is present, His disciples have no need to fast. His presence brings a time of joy and celebration rather than mourning. Jesus refers to Himself as the “bridegroom,” a Messianic title. In Jewish tradition, the arrival of the Messiah was anticipated as a time of joy, so His presence among His disciples marked a season of spiritual abundance.

While Jesus’ disciples did not fast during His earthly ministry, fasting is not dismissed in the New Testament. Jesus later teaches about fasting in Matthew 6:16-18, emphasizing sincerity and a focus on God rather than seeking attention from others. The book of Acts also records instances of fasting by early Christian communities. The question of fasting is ultimately about discerning the seasons of God’s work and responding appropriately to His presence.

Application

This passage teaches us about the significance of Jesus’ presence and the joy that accompanies the arrival of the Messiah. It highlights the unique nature of Jesus’ ministry and the establishment of the New Covenant. It also reminds us that while fasting can be a valuable spiritual practice, our focus should ultimately be on our relationship with Jesus and the joy we experience in His presence. The disciples of John asked a sincere question about religious practice, and Jesus redirected their attention to Himself. In the same way, our spiritual disciplines should flow from our relationship with Christ rather than become mere routine. When we sense His presence and leading, we can respond with joy and celebration, while still valuing fasting as a means of drawing closer to God in seasons when He calls us to it.

• Matthew 9:14 provides insight into the disciples’ inquiry about fasting and Jesus’ response. It underscores the unique nature of Jesus’ ministry and the joy His presence brings. While His disciples did not fast during His earthly ministry, fasting continues to hold significance as a spiritual practice in the Christian tradition.