Matthew 6:16-18 Fasting
In Matthew 6:16–18, Jesus addresses one of the most misunderstood spiritual disciplines in the Christian life — fasting. Far from being a public display of spirituality, Jesus teaches that true fasting is a private act of devotion, aimed not at impressing others but at humbling ourselves before God.
In this message, we walk carefully through Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount to uncover:
• Why Jesus assumes His followers will fast
• The danger of religious performance and spiritual hypocrisy
• What fasting truly reveals about the heart
• How God sees what is done in secret
• Why divine reward comes from sincerity, not visibility
This passage challenges modern believers to examine their motives, their disciplines, and their desire for recognition. Jesus reminds us that spiritual life is not meant to be staged for others — it is meant to be lived before God.
Whether you are new to fasting or seeking to deepen your walk with Christ, this message will help you understand:
– What fasting is (and is not)
– How Jesus expects His disciples to practice it
– How secrecy protects sincerity
– How the Father rewards hidden faith