Sermon on the Mount | Week 3 | MATTHEW 6: 16–18

“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. But when you fast, comb your hair[d] and wash your face. 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.”

REFLECTION

Here, Jesus addresses the topic of fasting. It is important to note that Jesus assumes we are fasting by using the word “when” instead of “if.” Fasting is not just an Old Testament term— this is something Jesus assumes we are continuing to practice! There are many reasons one might fast. It could be an act of self discipline, an act of showing repentance and dependence on the Lord, or as part of an important prayer offered up to God. The purpose of fasting is to seek the Lord, to come in confession, to pursue self-control, and to be reminded of our deep need for God.

The problem with the fasting of the Pharisees is that they were fasting in order to be seen as righteous by other people. They were making an act of worship a big show by making themselves look hungry, disheveled, and tired. Jesus says that when we fast, we shouldn’t make a big deal of it. Jesus warns us not to make our spiritual life a flashy spectacle. Once again, Jesus focuses on the heart of the matter. Although it’s important for us to own our faith publicly , we must keep our heart motives in check. When our spiritual life is a big show simply to prove we are holy and righteous to the people around us, we are being hypocritical. Jesus calls us to a higher standard. He asks us to live a life that seeks him rather than the approval or glory from man.

Have you ever fasted (from food, media, screens, etc.)? How can you take a step towards God in this area?