Thursday, January 26, 2012
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
A Biblical study on the disciple of fasting. (pt. 3)
Perhaps the most important question has been saved for the end:
Why should I fast?
Why should I fast?
This question is deeply connected to what has already been discussed as far as our motives for fasting are concerned. (If you haven't already, see pt. 1 and 2) That being said, there are a lot of reasons for why we should fast. One source I read said the purposes believers should engage in fasting are,
• To demonstrate their satisfaction in God. (Matthew 4:4)
• To humble themselves before God. (Daniel 9:3)
• To request God’s help. (2 Samuel 12:16; Esther 4:16; Ezra 8:23)
• To seek God’s will. (Acts 13:2-3)
• To turn from sin. (Jonah 3:5-10)
• To worship God without distractions. (Luke 2:36-38)
When we engage in fasting, we disengage in what we would normally engage in frequently (eating), and to use that time to seek the Lord earnestly in prayer. Fasting, in fact, is never seen apart from the act of prayer in all the Bible. That's quite a statement, I know, but you can take it to the bank, cause it's the truth.
As one has pastor has said, “You can engage in prayer without fasting, but you can never fast apart from engaging in prayer.”
• To demonstrate their satisfaction in God. (Matthew 4:4)
• To humble themselves before God. (Daniel 9:3)
• To request God’s help. (2 Samuel 12:16; Esther 4:16; Ezra 8:23)
• To seek God’s will. (Acts 13:2-3)
• To turn from sin. (Jonah 3:5-10)
• To worship God without distractions. (Luke 2:36-38)
When we engage in fasting, we disengage in what we would normally engage in frequently (eating), and to use that time to seek the Lord earnestly in prayer. Fasting, in fact, is never seen apart from the act of prayer in all the Bible. That's quite a statement, I know, but you can take it to the bank, cause it's the truth.
As one has pastor has said, “You can engage in prayer without fasting, but you can never fast apart from engaging in prayer.”
Prayer always accompanies fasting, and the ultimate purpose in the end is to seek God. When you fast, perhaps make a list of things or people that you feel the Lord is leading you to pray for. It's helpful to have a list because sometimes you'll just sit there for 20 minutes and really not pray anything. It's difficult sometimes when we sit there not knowing what to pray. Sometimes we can be so full of sorrow and confusion that we don't even know what to say. One encouraging truth to remember is that the Bible teaches that even when we don't know what to pray the Holy Spirit is praying on our behalf.
"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God." (Romans 8:26-27)
What a blessing, right? The Spirit actually prays on our behalf. (v. 26) And When God, the Holy Spirit, prays to God, the Father, He always says, "Yes!" Because the Spirit prays in accordance with the will of God. (v. 27)
In conclusion, whether it's because of sin, for guidance, or for help, or just to be with the Lord, fasting is to be Christ-centered. It's all about Christ in the end, not about us. In the book of Mark, chapter two, a group of scribes approached Jesus who was reclining at the table in Matthew's home. They began to ridicule Jesus, because they had noticed that while their disciples fasted, and even John the Baptist's disciples fasted, the disciples of Jesus did no such thing. I close with the words of Jesus, in response to the scribes question as to why His disciples were not fasting,
“And Jesus said to them,
'While the bridegroom is with them,
the attendants of the bridegroom cannot fast, can they?
So long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast.
But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them,
and then they will fast in that day.'"
(Mark 2:19-20)
Loved ones, Jesus' disciples had no need to fast at this moment because Christ, the bridegroom, was with them!--and nobody fasts at a wedding! And so, the disciples of Jesus had no need to fast because Christ, the God of the universe, had made his dwelling among them.
Since Jesus spoke these words, much has happened. He was crucified for sinners, died and was buried, but raised to life on the third day. After this He ascended to heaven. In other words, the bridegroom has since then been taken away, but just as He left, so He will return. And when He comes back, He will judge this world. All those who are in Christ will be found righteous because of all that He has accomplished through his death and resurrection, but all those who do not know the Lord will be forever in torment. Do you know this Jesus, who will return, my reader? Give heed to these words, stranger, for they are not my own. They are, rather, the Words of God, that today is the day to turn from your sins, today is the day of salvation. Come and to cling to the precious Lord Jesus. Forsake this life and be done with this world! For all who turn will be counted forgiven, but all who are found with sin will be thrown into the eternal lake of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. As it has so wisely been said,
Christ is coming back, loved ones! Christ is coming back! And when our Lord returns we won't have to fast any longer, for He will make His dwelling place among us! We will not fast, rather; we will feast! For there will be nothing to mourn over after Jesus does away with pain and wipes away every tear. There will nothing to repent of because Christ will glorify us and make us like Him. There will be nothing to seek after, because the One we've sought after all along will finally be with us, face to face. Oh, for that day! Let it come soon, Lord! Let all the people of God say, "Amen! Amen!" Let all His chosen children sing out, "Hallelujah! Bless the Lord!" Let all we Saints of Christ look forward and persevere until that day!--that faithful day, in which we will finally be home.
Since Jesus spoke these words, much has happened. He was crucified for sinners, died and was buried, but raised to life on the third day. After this He ascended to heaven. In other words, the bridegroom has since then been taken away, but just as He left, so He will return. And when He comes back, He will judge this world. All those who are in Christ will be found righteous because of all that He has accomplished through his death and resurrection, but all those who do not know the Lord will be forever in torment. Do you know this Jesus, who will return, my reader? Give heed to these words, stranger, for they are not my own. They are, rather, the Words of God, that today is the day to turn from your sins, today is the day of salvation. Come and to cling to the precious Lord Jesus. Forsake this life and be done with this world! For all who turn will be counted forgiven, but all who are found with sin will be thrown into the eternal lake of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. As it has so wisely been said,
"Only one life;
'twill soon be past.
Only what's done
For Christ will last."
Christ is coming back, loved ones! Christ is coming back! And when our Lord returns we won't have to fast any longer, for He will make His dwelling place among us! We will not fast, rather; we will feast! For there will be nothing to mourn over after Jesus does away with pain and wipes away every tear. There will nothing to repent of because Christ will glorify us and make us like Him. There will be nothing to seek after, because the One we've sought after all along will finally be with us, face to face. Oh, for that day! Let it come soon, Lord! Let all the people of God say, "Amen! Amen!" Let all His chosen children sing out, "Hallelujah! Bless the Lord!" Let all we Saints of Christ look forward and persevere until that day!--that faithful day, in which we will finally be home.
Grace and peace, Saints!
zach
A Biblical survey on the discipline of fasting. (Pt. 2)
Are we as Christians ever commanded to fast in the Bible?
As far as Christians being commanded to fast, interestingly, the only command to fast in all the Bible was given not to Christians, but to Israel in the Old Testament. (See Leviticus 16:29-31) No where do we find a “post-cross” command from God to fast.
Let's just look briefly at the OT text in which God commands Israel to fast. It's found in Leviticus 16, verses 29-31, and in these verses God commands the people of Israel to “afflict themselves,” or “humble themselves,” which in the Hebrew text implies the act of abstaining from food. God commands this to be done once a year in observance of the day of atonement, a day in which the high priest would go into the temple of Israel and enter the “holy of holies” (a place that was only entered once a year on this day).
The priest would enter and then slaughter an animal to make atonement on behalf of the nation's sins against the Lord. The priest would intercede on behalf of Israel and ask the Lord to grant all the people forgiveness, himself included. And the people would fast, as they prayed to the Lord, mourning over their sin.
The day of atonement is now a thing of the past for Israel because of Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross, and there's no actual command to observe a “post-cross” day where a high-priest intercedes on Israel's behalf. The book of Hebrews says Christ is our great high-priest, interceding on behalf of his people, and that He has already paid and atoned for the sins of His children, namely, everyone and anyone who repents and believes the gospel. (See Hebrews 7:23-27. Hebrews 10:1-2). The book of Hebrews, by the way, is all about how Christ is the superior prophet, the superior sacrifice, the superior high-priest, the superior intercessor etc. Sorry, I know this may be a whole lot to swallow, but I just want to be thorough.
So the Israelites would fast and repent during this day and would remember all the Lord had done for them. Taking it back to Christians fasting now: if Christ has already atoned for our sins, should we still fast? And if we're never actually commanded to fast in the New Testament, then should we do it?
Well, just because the Bible only commanded fasting before the Messiah had purchased his children by dying on the cross, that doesn't mean we as New Testament saints shouldn't fast. In fact, fasting is a wonderful discipline that every Christian should engage in! One source I read said, “The Bible presents fasting as something that is good, profitable, and beneficial... The book of Acts records believers fasting before they made important decisions (Acts 13:2, 14:23.)”
Fasting is basically assumed in the life of the believer. As we wait for Christ to come back, we mourn, we repent, and we seek the Lord earnestly for guidance before He returns. Jesus Himself even assumes that times will come when those who follow him will engage in fasting. (See Matthew 6:18-22)
When should I fast? This is probably the most interesting study I've encountered related to fasting. Fasting is arguably always a spontaneous act in the scriptures, meaning it isn't planned. It's usually done in response to something life-altering. For example:
• Paul fasted for three days after he saw the Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus.
• Moses ends up staying on Mount Sinai for forty days when he met with the Lord. During this time he ate and drank nothing.
• Esther tells the people to fast for three days and three nights, unplanned mind you, and to pray on her behalf.
• Jehoshaphat spontaneously calls all the people of the land to fast upon learning of an invasion against Judah.
• The King of Nineveh proclaimed a national fast to be taken by all the people in immediate response to the preaching of Jonah.
• David fasted without planning upon learning his child, born of Bathsheba, had been struck ill by the Lord. The Bible says that plead with God on behalf of the child, and spent the whole night laying face down on the ground. He didn't eat anything.
• Nehemiah, in Nehemiah 1, learns that there is a remnant remaining in Jerusalem, but that they are in great distress, and the walls of the city are broken down. The text says that "when hearing these words", Nehemiah wept for days, prayed, and fasted.
• King Darius fasts after Daniel is thrown into the Lions den. Daniel 6:18 says, "Then the king went off to his palace and spent the night fasting, and no entertainment was brought before him; and his sleep fled from him." Darius was so overwhelmed by his own foolish leadership, that he couldn't even eat, nor could he sleep.
• There was only one fast I had trouble classifying as spontaneous; the 40 day fast of Jesus Christ. It's doesn't roll of my tongue well to say God does anything spontaneously, whereas man doesn't know his left foot from his right in terms of where he's heading. So I would classify this fast as an exception, only because Jesus is God, and He knows everything that's going to happen before it happens! Still, one could argue His fast is immediate and unplanned in that immediately after He's baptized He's simply led by the Spirit into the wilderness, and begins to fast. (See Matthew 4:1-2)
• There was only one fast I had trouble classifying as spontaneous; the 40 day fast of Jesus Christ. It's doesn't roll of my tongue well to say God does anything spontaneously, whereas man doesn't know his left foot from his right in terms of where he's heading. So I would classify this fast as an exception, only because Jesus is God, and He knows everything that's going to happen before it happens! Still, one could argue His fast is immediate and unplanned in that immediately after He's baptized He's simply led by the Spirit into the wilderness, and begins to fast. (See Matthew 4:1-2)
It's definitely a very interesting phenomenom that the body naturally responds to the heart of an individual. Have you ever heard that someone you loved had just died, and afterward had absolutely no desire to eat? That was a type of fasting, my friend. Your body and heart were saying that it wasn't the time to eat, but to mourn. By the way, I use the word, "type," because Biblical fasting should always involve prayer and seeking God. In essence, though, even non-believers at times will engage in this most basic form of fasting.
You may have had that experience when confronting individuals over sin, or even when being confronted yourself. Perhaps you wanted to help restore another brother or sister by telling them them to turn from their sin and return to Christ. But the conversation wasn't seeming to go well, because they were making it clear to you that they didn't want to let go of their sin.
You may have had that experience when confronting individuals over sin, or even when being confronted yourself. Perhaps you wanted to help restore another brother or sister by telling them them to turn from their sin and return to Christ. But the conversation wasn't seeming to go well, because they were making it clear to you that they didn't want to let go of their sin.
It's in those moments that the food on our plates seems just completely undesirable to us. You don't want to eat your burrito (as much as you like burritos), and you don't want to drink your soda. It all just seemed pointless. It's as if the food has suddenly become diseased, decayed, or dirty. It goes from a plate of something delicious, to a plate of dirt. There's no way you could possibly enjoy it, because at that moment all you want really is to cry. You feel mournful, wanting to be alone, away from people and from food, and to spend time simply weeping while crying out to the Lord. Have you ever felt that way? That was fasting, my friend.
When should you fast, then? These may be perhaps the most mystical words you'll ever hear come out of my mouth, but here we go: when should I fast, you ask? My answer: you'll know when the time comes. You just will. None of the examples listed above planned to fast, they just knew it was time to fast when whatever the circumstances were had arisen. I don't think I'm shooting in the dark here. And I don't believe I'm stepping into the left-field of "theological liberalism." (It'd be hard to do that with just a minority view on fasting, but you get my point) From what I've honestly deduced from scripture, the season to fast will be simply be impressed upon believers by the Holy Spirit. He will simply lead us to fast. You're welcome to disagree, but if you do please share. I would like to hear your response, provided it contains Biblical support. I just want to know and understand what God's Word has to say. That's all.
The obvious question then arises regarding planned fasts. Is it ok for me to plan a one day fast once a month, and to hold myself to keeping to that goal? Or is it alright for my Church to plan a corporate fast once a year as an entire body? Can I set aside a time during the year specifically for fasting? Yes, you can. All those things are good and completely fine. While planned fasts are not the norm, I don't think there is anything anti-biblical about them. It's always good to seek the Lord through prayer and through fasting. The real question, however, isn't whether or not you should do these things, but why you do them. How does your fasting relate your motives in the first place? Why are you planning to fast? Do you fast once a month because it makes you feel like God sees that practice and now owes you something? Is the attitude at your Church, "Look at how holy we are!", because they do a fast together once a year? Do you fast every now and then to "shed a few pounds and, oh yeah, because I can seek God, but the weight loss thing is cool too?" The answers to questions like these will determine whether you should follow through with the fast or not. And loved ones, be honest. Please be honest. God is not a fool, that He should be deceived. You can fool everyone else but you can't fool God who searches the heart. Be honest, beloved.
In closing, allow me to provide for you a brief caveat in relation to all these things. Remember this, beloved: following Christ is never something that should become routine and mechanical. Do that and you'll just be another Tin Man from "The Wizard of Oz"--all machine, but no heart. I think we have too many "Tin Man Christians" filling our Churches today. Loving Christ isn't a chore, beloved, it's a delight. The same should be true of our disciplines. We don't pray for the sake of prayer, but rather for communion with the Lord. We don't fast for the sake of simply fasting, but to draw near to God. Examine your motives in all of your disciplines, beloved, and ask yourself, "Do I desire the nearness of the Lord in my heart?" "Do I long for the Creator's guidance as I strive to honor and obey Him?" God doesn't want your worthless sacrafices, beloved, He wants your heart. Give your time, life, and worship to the Lord, not so He'll do something for you, but because of all He's already done at the cross. In Christ alone, loved ones.
In closing, allow me to provide for you a brief caveat in relation to all these things. Remember this, beloved: following Christ is never something that should become routine and mechanical. Do that and you'll just be another Tin Man from "The Wizard of Oz"--all machine, but no heart. I think we have too many "Tin Man Christians" filling our Churches today. Loving Christ isn't a chore, beloved, it's a delight. The same should be true of our disciplines. We don't pray for the sake of prayer, but rather for communion with the Lord. We don't fast for the sake of simply fasting, but to draw near to God. Examine your motives in all of your disciplines, beloved, and ask yourself, "Do I desire the nearness of the Lord in my heart?" "Do I long for the Creator's guidance as I strive to honor and obey Him?" God doesn't want your worthless sacrafices, beloved, He wants your heart. Give your time, life, and worship to the Lord, not so He'll do something for you, but because of all He's already done at the cross. In Christ alone, loved ones.
zach
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
A Biblical study on the discipline of fasting. (Pt. 1)
I thought the size of this entry might be overwhelming... So I've split it into three separate entries. I'll begin this first entry with a question. Do you have a proper understanding of the discipline of fasting? Can you support your understanding Biblically? What is fasting, exactly? Where are we commanded to fast in the Bible? These are just some of the questions I see many believers giving somewhat poor answers to. We desperately need to have a Biblical perspective when it comes to the topic of fasting. You say, "Well, sure. We desperately need to have a Biblical perspective when it comes to any topic of Theology," and I would agree. But fasting may very well be the most neglected and often misunderstood spiritual discipline in all the Bible. This story of one believer's experience of fasting can shed some light on this hypothesis.
I think many of us have the same perspective on fasting as this individual. We can see, then, that there's a need for proper understanding in this area. Now, this won't be exhaustive, meaning there will still be much to cover that I have left untouched, but here's just a few questions to consider concerning the discipline of fasting...
What is fasting? The NT word for fasting is the word "nesteia" which is a compound of “ne”, a negative prefix, and "esthio" which means "to eat." So literally when you fast, you are engaged in the act of refraining from eating food. Normally in scripture it's a complete cutting out of food, although there are some modified instances where only certain foods are eaten. Even when you look at our english word, “breakfast”, the etymology of the word makes a little more sense. After all, breakfast is normally when you “break” your “fast”, because you haven't eaten for roughly eight or nine hours (due to your sleep.)
So fasting, therefore, is the act of abstaining for a certain time from all or specific foods to seek the Lord. I say all this (about eating) because some people engage in practices in which they refrain from watching TV, or using the internet, so they can seek God in prayer and they'll call it “fasting.” In reality it's not fasting, in the literal sense. Paul does talk, however, about married couples that may at times abstain from sex to seek the Lord in prayer, and then return to engaging in sexual activity. (1 Cor. 7:5). Besides this instance, which is open to debate, the Bible only shows fasting distinctly as the abstinence of food. Regardless, I believe if the person's intention is to give more time to prayer and to seek God than that's always a good thing. I wouldn't get on their case over the fact that I believe it's technically not a "fast" to refrain from watching TV. I would, however, get on someone's case who actually was abstaining from food but whose heart was completely in the wrong place. This leads me to my second point.
What should our motive be in fasting? Motives will always show the heart of an individual. Therefore, our motives in fasting should always be examined because, quite frankly, some people fast a lot but for all the wrong reasons! Their fasting is essentially worthless. So you have to ask yourself, "Why am I fasting?" Fasting incorrectly is like using a razor to remove plaque from your teeth; it's not a good idea, it's not going to be of much benefit to you, and is just going to end up doing you more harm than good in the end. So with that being said, here's a couple questions to consider before or during fasting:
• Am I fasting to lose weight? Weight loss is certainly most easily achieved by fasting, that's sure enough. Weight loss, though, shouldn't be our goal in fasting. Ironically, I think it's the number one reason people fast. If you want to lose weight, there's a universal chap stick out there called superglue. Combine that with a bit of exercise and voilà!--there you have it, folks.
• Am I fasting to show everyone else how “spiritual” I am? Everyone's eyes are sure to be on you when you announce to the world that you are so faithfully seeking the Lord by not eating, and everyone else should just admire you. Loved ones, we are no more spiritual with food in our stomachs than we are without! Please be extra careful to avoid this pitfall. Please, beloved. This approach to fasting is especially dangerous. In fact, Jesus actually warns against this hypocritical view of fasting in Matthew 6:18-22, when he says to not fast as some do--only seeking to draw attention to themselves.
• Am I fasting because I think God will owe me something afterward? Some people think that if they fast the Lord will be forced to give them something they want. It's as if you're paying your dues to the Lord by refraining from food, and after your done God owes you something. That's not the case, because God doesn't ever owe us anything. The same principle would apply to giving money as well. When we give, we give with a cheerful heart out of love for God, not expecting anything to be given back in return. Just like the way a father and mother feed and care for their children, not expecting anything back in return. We often fast, and give, believing God now owes us something.
• Am I fasting to earn God's saving favor? Perhaps the most dangerous motive a person can have in fasting, however, is when he or she takes the previous motive one-step further, and believes the act of fasting will somehow earn them eternal favor before God. That's an especially dangerous motive, because it's completely contrary to the gospel of Christ. It's a "false-gospel", if you will, to believe fasting earns one favor before God. Christ alone redeems and saves sinners--not fasting. Nobody fasts their way to heaven, loved ones. The "fast track" to heaven is a fast track to hell. Allow me to elaborate more on this last point, because it's certainly crucial to understand.
Other religions engage in fasting too, but their fast means nothing to God. For example, Muslims engage in the discipline of fasting during “Ramadan”, which they observe once a year, to keep one of their “five pillars.” Essentially they believe its part of the process you engage in as you earn favor before “Allah,” and so ultimately to enter heaven one must fast. Now, we're not Muslims, and nor do we believe Allah to be god, but I think there's a tendency for some Christian's to engage in fasting because they think it will earn them brownie points with the true God. They're kind of like these Muslims in their mentality.
They think, in essence, God will grant them grace because they've afflicted themselves and so he'll take notice of them because of their good deed. This isn't true. The Bible teaches that our good deeds are as "period stained rags" before God, which is pretty darn disgusting (see Isaiah 64:6). Christ taught the complete opposite of the "good deeds gospel", and earning one's own favor before God. Christ taught that no one can earn grace, (or brownie points) before God. That's why it's called grace after all, right? He taught that all have sinned, and that there is none righteous, and that no amount of prayer, or fasting, or good-deeds could ever deliver anyone from God's judgment.
Essentially when it comes down to it we stand before Christ asking Him, “Lord, what can I do to be saved from God's judgment toward sinners? Can I pray? Can I fast? I can fast for a really long time!--just let me know how long is necessary.” Christ, in turn, then replies by saying, “No. No amount of praying, giving, fasting, or anything else you try will earn you favor before my Father. He demands perfection." (Matthew 5:48)
God's demand is perfection, but "nobody's perfect," as the saying goes. But Jesus has come and accomplished that which we could never accomplish. And through His death and resurrection on the cross, taking our place, He have saved us from that judgment. Through faith and repentance, that is, turning from our sin, we get the benefits. And now, when the Father looks at you and I, He see's His good works, and His righteous deeds, and His perfect life.
So, in closing: abstaining from food doesn't grant me any more favor with God than wearing a Michael Jordan jersey makes me Michael Jordan. So we do not fast to earn favor before God. Because Christ has already accomplished all that grants us grace from God on the cross, when he said, “It is finished.”
Grace and peace, saints.
zach
"I've fasted on several occasions; and nothing happened. I just got hungry... Several years ago I heard a couple of pastors discussing fasting. On their recommendation I tried my first fast. They said it was commanded in the Bible and should be practiced by every Christian... I decided to try it. All I could think about was how hungry I was. I said to myself, 'If I ever get through this day, I'll never try this again.' I don't think that day of fasting helped me one bit." (Andy Anderson, Fasting Changed My Life)
I think many of us have the same perspective on fasting as this individual. We can see, then, that there's a need for proper understanding in this area. Now, this won't be exhaustive, meaning there will still be much to cover that I have left untouched, but here's just a few questions to consider concerning the discipline of fasting...
What is fasting? The NT word for fasting is the word "nesteia" which is a compound of “ne”, a negative prefix, and "esthio" which means "to eat." So literally when you fast, you are engaged in the act of refraining from eating food. Normally in scripture it's a complete cutting out of food, although there are some modified instances where only certain foods are eaten. Even when you look at our english word, “breakfast”, the etymology of the word makes a little more sense. After all, breakfast is normally when you “break” your “fast”, because you haven't eaten for roughly eight or nine hours (due to your sleep.)
So fasting, therefore, is the act of abstaining for a certain time from all or specific foods to seek the Lord. I say all this (about eating) because some people engage in practices in which they refrain from watching TV, or using the internet, so they can seek God in prayer and they'll call it “fasting.” In reality it's not fasting, in the literal sense. Paul does talk, however, about married couples that may at times abstain from sex to seek the Lord in prayer, and then return to engaging in sexual activity. (1 Cor. 7:5). Besides this instance, which is open to debate, the Bible only shows fasting distinctly as the abstinence of food. Regardless, I believe if the person's intention is to give more time to prayer and to seek God than that's always a good thing. I wouldn't get on their case over the fact that I believe it's technically not a "fast" to refrain from watching TV. I would, however, get on someone's case who actually was abstaining from food but whose heart was completely in the wrong place. This leads me to my second point.
What should our motive be in fasting? Motives will always show the heart of an individual. Therefore, our motives in fasting should always be examined because, quite frankly, some people fast a lot but for all the wrong reasons! Their fasting is essentially worthless. So you have to ask yourself, "Why am I fasting?" Fasting incorrectly is like using a razor to remove plaque from your teeth; it's not a good idea, it's not going to be of much benefit to you, and is just going to end up doing you more harm than good in the end. So with that being said, here's a couple questions to consider before or during fasting:
• Am I fasting to lose weight? Weight loss is certainly most easily achieved by fasting, that's sure enough. Weight loss, though, shouldn't be our goal in fasting. Ironically, I think it's the number one reason people fast. If you want to lose weight, there's a universal chap stick out there called superglue. Combine that with a bit of exercise and voilà!--there you have it, folks.
• Am I fasting to show everyone else how “spiritual” I am? Everyone's eyes are sure to be on you when you announce to the world that you are so faithfully seeking the Lord by not eating, and everyone else should just admire you. Loved ones, we are no more spiritual with food in our stomachs than we are without! Please be extra careful to avoid this pitfall. Please, beloved. This approach to fasting is especially dangerous. In fact, Jesus actually warns against this hypocritical view of fasting in Matthew 6:18-22, when he says to not fast as some do--only seeking to draw attention to themselves.
• Am I fasting because I think God will owe me something afterward? Some people think that if they fast the Lord will be forced to give them something they want. It's as if you're paying your dues to the Lord by refraining from food, and after your done God owes you something. That's not the case, because God doesn't ever owe us anything. The same principle would apply to giving money as well. When we give, we give with a cheerful heart out of love for God, not expecting anything to be given back in return. Just like the way a father and mother feed and care for their children, not expecting anything back in return. We often fast, and give, believing God now owes us something.
• Am I fasting to earn God's saving favor? Perhaps the most dangerous motive a person can have in fasting, however, is when he or she takes the previous motive one-step further, and believes the act of fasting will somehow earn them eternal favor before God. That's an especially dangerous motive, because it's completely contrary to the gospel of Christ. It's a "false-gospel", if you will, to believe fasting earns one favor before God. Christ alone redeems and saves sinners--not fasting. Nobody fasts their way to heaven, loved ones. The "fast track" to heaven is a fast track to hell. Allow me to elaborate more on this last point, because it's certainly crucial to understand.
Other religions engage in fasting too, but their fast means nothing to God. For example, Muslims engage in the discipline of fasting during “Ramadan”, which they observe once a year, to keep one of their “five pillars.” Essentially they believe its part of the process you engage in as you earn favor before “Allah,” and so ultimately to enter heaven one must fast. Now, we're not Muslims, and nor do we believe Allah to be god, but I think there's a tendency for some Christian's to engage in fasting because they think it will earn them brownie points with the true God. They're kind of like these Muslims in their mentality.
They think, in essence, God will grant them grace because they've afflicted themselves and so he'll take notice of them because of their good deed. This isn't true. The Bible teaches that our good deeds are as "period stained rags" before God, which is pretty darn disgusting (see Isaiah 64:6). Christ taught the complete opposite of the "good deeds gospel", and earning one's own favor before God. Christ taught that no one can earn grace, (or brownie points) before God. That's why it's called grace after all, right? He taught that all have sinned, and that there is none righteous, and that no amount of prayer, or fasting, or good-deeds could ever deliver anyone from God's judgment.
Essentially when it comes down to it we stand before Christ asking Him, “Lord, what can I do to be saved from God's judgment toward sinners? Can I pray? Can I fast? I can fast for a really long time!--just let me know how long is necessary.” Christ, in turn, then replies by saying, “No. No amount of praying, giving, fasting, or anything else you try will earn you favor before my Father. He demands perfection." (Matthew 5:48)
God's demand is perfection, but "nobody's perfect," as the saying goes. But Jesus has come and accomplished that which we could never accomplish. And through His death and resurrection on the cross, taking our place, He have saved us from that judgment. Through faith and repentance, that is, turning from our sin, we get the benefits. And now, when the Father looks at you and I, He see's His good works, and His righteous deeds, and His perfect life.
So, in closing: abstaining from food doesn't grant me any more favor with God than wearing a Michael Jordan jersey makes me Michael Jordan. So we do not fast to earn favor before God. Because Christ has already accomplished all that grants us grace from God on the cross, when he said, “It is finished.”
Grace and peace, saints.
zach
Monday, January 16, 2012
Reading God's Word: The Author's tone
When you and I read it is absolutely crucial to search out the "what" and "why" of the author's writing. To say otherwise is to err. At the same time, however, it's crucial to know that he or she isn't necessarily always going to tell us word for word, "This is why I'm writing this book!" Nor is he guaranteed to use phrases such as, "This was terrible, and this was wonderful!" He may, and he may not. To use a baseball analogy; no two pitchers throw a curveball the exact same way, so, for the purpose of understanding, (not dropping the ball) we must adapt to each pitcher's style. Failure to do so results in the failure of "not catching" the message, and the author's message flies right over our head, just like in baseball.
What's my point? Well, it's very simple, actually. When you and I read the Bible, God's Word, we constantly need to be searching out the tone and the feel of the author's language, for it is in these that we will find both his agenda, and his aim in writing. The art of language goes beyond just simple "statement sentences." It would be helpful, perhaps, if I were to provide you with an example. Let's use the apostle Paul's second letter to his protege, Timothy. (2 Timothy for those of you who aren't Bible readers.)
Upon first glance, one might take this letter to simply be a list of instructions for how to lead the Church properly, but it's more than that. In Ch. 1:1-7 we see that Paul has an intimate relationship with Timothy who he regards as his own son. Ch. 1:8 reveals Paul is in prison, and the very reason for his imprisonment is none other than the gospel of Jesus Christ. Verses 11 and 12 show that Paul was appointed by God as a preacher of this gospel, and that it is because of God's appointment that Paul now suffers greatly, yet he suffers unashamed. Paul has already been abandoned and deserted by many (1:15; 4:14-16) and he's well aware of the fact that he is about to die (4:6-8). Timothy, on the receiving end of the letter, is a leader in the Church (1:6; 2:2, 14), which is in danger due to the fact that false teachers have crept into their midst and are now perverting and distorting the true gospel (2:14-18, 22-26; 3:1-10, 13).
With all that being said, it slowly becomes obvious to us that this is a very emotional letter. Paul's about to die. These are in essence, potentially his last words to his beloved son in the faith. This has tremendous implications on the choice of Paul's conversation. After all, what's the last thing those close to you say before leave you behind in this life? What does Paul spend his time saying to Timothy? Well, Paul spends most of it pouring his heart out to Timothy over issues such as standing up for the gospel, and being unashamed for it just as he is (1:8, 13-14). "Be like me, son", Paul says to Timothy. He'll admonish Timothy to disciple and pass the standard of sound words onto other men, and to suffer hardship for the faith of their Lord, Jesus Christ (2:1-4). Paul will call Timothy to preach the Word of God faithfully, no matter when, in season and out of season, no matter what, and to see the Word of God as the very hope of salvation. For through it lost men will become wise unto salvation, and through it the Church Paul loved will be reproved, corrected, made righteous, and equipped for all the work God has for them to accomplish (2:15; 3:14-17). Paul would even tell Timothy that the time was coming when no one would give an ear to the preaching of the Word of God, but would raise up teachers to teach their own twisted and disgusting doctrines (4:1-4). What was Timothy to do when this happened?--endure. To preach it anyway, regardless of the fact that no one would listen (4:1-2, 5).
Even though Paul never candidly states, "I'm writing this letter for this purpose", the tone and feel of Paul's writing shouldn't be seen as a simple list of do's and don'ts. It has to be read as a passionate letter of deep concern filled with admonishment and encouragement. Paul's love for Timothy flows like a raging river out of every sentence, as does his deep deep love for the Church of Jesus Christ. His commitment to the one true gospel shines radiantly in both his instructions as well as his warnings. These are the last words Paul would pen to Timothy. This letter is packed with passion, and in it Paul would remind Timothy of the reward of heaven that has been promised to the believer (1:1, 10, 2:10; 4:8).
Understanding all these things makes me read 2nd Timothy so differently. I'll never read 2 Tim. 3:16-17 the same,
"Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance, persecutions,and sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium and at Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord rescued me! Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads tosalvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Tim. 3:10-17 emphasis added)
And so, loved ones, "Do not be ashamed," as Paul once wrote to Timothy, "of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel..."
And remember!--Language, most certainly, goes far beyond just simple "statement sentences." How can I conclude this blog? How about by encouraging you to go and read 2 Timothy! In fact, just go read your Bible! Remember: read your Bible, and read it well. Grace and peace, loved ones!
-zach
1 Cor. 2:2
"Instead of telling us a thing is "terrible," describe it so that we'll be terrified. Don't say "it was a delight," make us say "delightful" when we've read the description."
-C.S. Lewis (on storytelling.)
When you and I read it is absolutely crucial to search out the "what" and "why" of the author's writing. To say otherwise is to err. At the same time, however, it's crucial to know that he or she isn't necessarily always going to tell us word for word, "This is why I'm writing this book!" Nor is he guaranteed to use phrases such as, "This was terrible, and this was wonderful!" He may, and he may not. To use a baseball analogy; no two pitchers throw a curveball the exact same way, so, for the purpose of understanding, (not dropping the ball) we must adapt to each pitcher's style. Failure to do so results in the failure of "not catching" the message, and the author's message flies right over our head, just like in baseball.
What's my point? Well, it's very simple, actually. When you and I read the Bible, God's Word, we constantly need to be searching out the tone and the feel of the author's language, for it is in these that we will find both his agenda, and his aim in writing. The art of language goes beyond just simple "statement sentences." It would be helpful, perhaps, if I were to provide you with an example. Let's use the apostle Paul's second letter to his protege, Timothy. (2 Timothy for those of you who aren't Bible readers.)
Upon first glance, one might take this letter to simply be a list of instructions for how to lead the Church properly, but it's more than that. In Ch. 1:1-7 we see that Paul has an intimate relationship with Timothy who he regards as his own son. Ch. 1:8 reveals Paul is in prison, and the very reason for his imprisonment is none other than the gospel of Jesus Christ. Verses 11 and 12 show that Paul was appointed by God as a preacher of this gospel, and that it is because of God's appointment that Paul now suffers greatly, yet he suffers unashamed. Paul has already been abandoned and deserted by many (1:15; 4:14-16) and he's well aware of the fact that he is about to die (4:6-8). Timothy, on the receiving end of the letter, is a leader in the Church (1:6; 2:2, 14), which is in danger due to the fact that false teachers have crept into their midst and are now perverting and distorting the true gospel (2:14-18, 22-26; 3:1-10, 13).
With all that being said, it slowly becomes obvious to us that this is a very emotional letter. Paul's about to die. These are in essence, potentially his last words to his beloved son in the faith. This has tremendous implications on the choice of Paul's conversation. After all, what's the last thing those close to you say before leave you behind in this life? What does Paul spend his time saying to Timothy? Well, Paul spends most of it pouring his heart out to Timothy over issues such as standing up for the gospel, and being unashamed for it just as he is (1:8, 13-14). "Be like me, son", Paul says to Timothy. He'll admonish Timothy to disciple and pass the standard of sound words onto other men, and to suffer hardship for the faith of their Lord, Jesus Christ (2:1-4). Paul will call Timothy to preach the Word of God faithfully, no matter when, in season and out of season, no matter what, and to see the Word of God as the very hope of salvation. For through it lost men will become wise unto salvation, and through it the Church Paul loved will be reproved, corrected, made righteous, and equipped for all the work God has for them to accomplish (2:15; 3:14-17). Paul would even tell Timothy that the time was coming when no one would give an ear to the preaching of the Word of God, but would raise up teachers to teach their own twisted and disgusting doctrines (4:1-4). What was Timothy to do when this happened?--endure. To preach it anyway, regardless of the fact that no one would listen (4:1-2, 5).
Even though Paul never candidly states, "I'm writing this letter for this purpose", the tone and feel of Paul's writing shouldn't be seen as a simple list of do's and don'ts. It has to be read as a passionate letter of deep concern filled with admonishment and encouragement. Paul's love for Timothy flows like a raging river out of every sentence, as does his deep deep love for the Church of Jesus Christ. His commitment to the one true gospel shines radiantly in both his instructions as well as his warnings. These are the last words Paul would pen to Timothy. This letter is packed with passion, and in it Paul would remind Timothy of the reward of heaven that has been promised to the believer (1:1, 10, 2:10; 4:8).
Understanding all these things makes me read 2nd Timothy so differently. I'll never read 2 Tim. 3:16-17 the same,
"Now you followed my teaching, conduct, purpose, faith, patience, love, perseverance, persecutions,and sufferings, such as happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium and at Lystra; what persecutions I endured, and out of them all the Lord rescued me! Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads tosalvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Tim. 3:10-17 emphasis added)
And so, loved ones, "Do not be ashamed," as Paul once wrote to Timothy, "of the testimony of our Lord or of me His prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel..."
And remember!--Language, most certainly, goes far beyond just simple "statement sentences." How can I conclude this blog? How about by encouraging you to go and read 2 Timothy! In fact, just go read your Bible! Remember: read your Bible, and read it well. Grace and peace, loved ones!
-zach
1 Cor. 2:2
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