How does fasting twice weekly demonstrate commitment to spiritual discipline in Luke 18:12? Framing the Verse “ ‘I fast twice a week and tithe of all that I acquire.’ ” (Luke 18:12) Why the Pharisee Mentions Fasting • In the parable (Luke 18:9-14) Jesus contrasts two men praying. • The Pharisee lists spiritual achievements; fasting twice weekly tops the list—highlighting an action considered exemplary obedience. • His claim is literal: Jewish tradition (later codified in the Mishnah, Ta’anit 1:4) set Monday and Thursday as voluntary fast days. Fasting in Scripture: A Brief Survey • Moses fasted forty days (Exodus 34:28). • Israel fasted in crisis (Judges 20:26). • David humbled himself with fasting (Psalm 35:13). • Early church leaders fasted before commissioning missionaries (Acts 13:2-3). • Jesus assumed His disciples would fast: “When you fast…” (Matthew 6:16-18). What Twice-Weekly Fasting Demonstrated • Consistent self-denial—regularly postponing legitimate needs to prioritize God. • Ongoing humility—submitting body and appetite to the Lord (James 4:10). • Watchfulness—creating space to seek God’s guidance (Nehemiah 1:4). • Generosity—money saved on meals could be shared with the poor (cf. Isaiah 58:6-7). • Discipline—training the will, echoing Paul’s resolve: “I discipline my body and make it my slave” (1 Corinthians 9:27). The Lesson Jesus Emphasizes • Fasting itself is good; boasting about it is not. • The tax collector, not the Pharisee, “went home justified” (Luke 18:14). • Motive determines value: “to be seen by men” (Matthew 6:16) voids reward. Practical Takeaways • Schedule regular fasts—weekly or otherwise—to keep the heart tender. • Pair fasting with prayer and Scripture reading for focused communion. • Let every fast end in gratitude, not self-congratulation. • Evaluate motives: desire for God’s pleasure, not human applause. • Use freed-up resources—time, money—to serve others (Isaiah 58:10). Conclusion Fasting twice a week, when done with humility, showcases steady commitment to spiritual discipline: a tangible, recurring declaration that seeking God outranks satisfying self. |
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