What is the meaning of Mark 2:20? But the time will come - Jesus acknowledges an approaching, fixed moment in God’s redemptive plan. This is not a vague possibility but a sure event, echoing phrases like “My hour has not yet come” (John 2:4) and later “the hour has come” (John 17:1). - His listeners—John’s disciples and the Pharisees (Mark 2:18)—are worried about fasting regulations. Jesus lifts their eyes from man-made schedules to God’s timetable. - By speaking of “the time,” He affirms divine sovereignty over every season (Ecclesiastes 3:1) and reminds us that prophecy unfolds exactly as foretold (Isaiah 46:10). when the bridegroom will be taken from them - “Bridegroom” identifies Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah who has come to claim His bride, the people who believe in Him (Isaiah 62:5; John 3:29). - The phrase “will be taken” points to His violent removal—His arrest, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension (Mark 14:43-46; Acts 1:9-11). - This departure is temporary, not final. Jesus promises, “I will come back and welcome you into My presence” (John 14:3). Paul echoes this hope when he calls the Church “the bride” awaiting Christ’s return (Ephesians 5:25-27; Revelation 19:7). then they will fast - Fasting shifts from a ritualistic duty to a heartfelt response to the Bridegroom’s absence. After Jesus ascends, His disciples fast as an expression of longing and dependence (Acts 13:2-3; 2 Corinthians 11:27). - New-covenant fasting is: • Voluntary, Spirit-led, not imposed by human tradition (Colossians 2:20-23). • Purposeful: seeking guidance (Acts 14:23), interceding for others (Ezra 8:23), or deepening communion with God while awaiting Christ’s return (Luke 21:36). - The practice will end in the fullness of joy when the Bridegroom returns (Revelation 21:3-4). summary Jesus answers a question about fasting by revealing Himself as the Bridegroom. While He is physically present, the appropriate response is celebration. Once He is “taken,” fasting becomes a sincere, Spirit-guided expression of yearning for His return and reliance on His strength. The verse invites believers to live between joy over what Christ has done and hopeful anticipation of seeing Him face to face. |
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