When You Fast (Matthew 6:16-18)

Sermon Series: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7)

Sermon Title: When You Fast

Sermon Text: Matthew 6:16-18

Big Idea: Fasting is a response to sin and suffering that fosters greater love for God and others.

Jesus confronts our self-centered motive for fasting (v16)

What we know to be clear and certain in Scripture regarding fasting

1. Fasting is a regular rhythm in the lives of those who faithfully follow Jesus

2. Fasting is a temp & voluntary decision to abstain from food for a period of time

3. Fasting does not have a specified duration

4. “Fasting is the natural, inevitable response of a person to a grievous sacred moment in life” - Dr. Scott McKnight

5. Spontaneous fasts are a reactive response to sin and suffering

6. Scheduled fasts are a proactive response to sin and suffering

Jesus provides the proper motive for fasting (v17-18)