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Matthew 9:14 (BSB)
Then John’s disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Why is it that we and the Pharisees fast so often, but Your disciples do not fast?”
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Then John’s disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Why is it that we and the Pharisees fast so often, but Your disciples do not fast?”” — Matthew 9:14
In this moment, you're witnessing a genuine curiosity from the followers of John the Baptist. They're perplexed and a bit frustrated, asking why they and the strict religious leaders, the Pharisees, are fasting while Jesus' friends are not. It's like they're saying, 'Hey, we’re doing our part! Why aren’t they?' This scene is charged with emotion as it highlights the clash between tradition and new beginnings. You can almost feel the tension in the air as they seek answers, wanting to understand the heart behind Jesus' approach.
This book was written by Matthew, one of Jesus' close followers. Matthew was a tax collector, someone who was often seen as an outsider, yet he found a place among Jesus’ inner circle. By including this detail about fasting, Matthew is emphasizing the transformative nature of Jesus' message. He wants us to see that Jesus invites everyone, even those who feel left out, into a new way of living that prioritizes relationship over ritual.
When Matthew wrote this, the Jewish community was deeply rooted in traditions and laws, many of which were seen as essential to faith. It was around the first century when Jesus was sharing these ideas, a time filled with political tension and spiritual longing. People were looking for hope and meaning amidst the strict rules of their faith. Understanding this helps us see why the question about fasting was so loaded; it wasn’t just about food—it was about identity and belonging within their faith community.
This verse matters today because it challenges you to think about your own practices and beliefs. Are you holding onto traditions that no longer bring you life? Jesus is inviting you to explore a deeper connection with Him, one that doesn’t just check boxes but fills your heart with joy and purpose. It’s about the spirit of the law rather than the letter of the law. This can shift how you approach your daily life, encouraging you to seek relationships rather than just routines.
This week, take a moment to reflect on your own routines. Is there something you do out of habit that feels disconnected from your heart? Maybe it's time to shake things up! Try setting aside a few moments each day for genuine connection—whether it's through prayer, meditation, or simply being present with those around you. Notice how it feels to prioritize relationships over rituals. You might discover a refreshing new perspective on your faith!
This verse is nestled in a larger narrative where Jesus is shaking things up. Just before this moment, He’s been healing the sick and even forgiving sins in surprising ways. The disciples of John are feeling the pressure of their own traditions, and now they’re confronting Jesus about a noticeable difference in practice. This moment is crucial because it shows the tension between the old ways and the new life that Jesus represents. What comes next is a powerful response from Jesus that challenges their understanding of fasting and what it means to truly connect with God.
What are some traditions or routines in your life that you might need to reassess? Are they helping you grow closer to God and others, or are they just something you do?
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