The Teachings of Jesus : Lesson 21
Text: Matthew 6:16-18
5 June 2016
THE PRACTICE OF FASTING IN THE HISTORY OF ISRAEL
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Historical
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Theological Significance
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Special Calls to fast (Joel 1:14)
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The Fast that God rejects (Isaiah 58)
THE PRACTICE OF FASTING BY THE LORD JESUS
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Special
40 days and 40 nights
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Significance
a) Pre-ministry
b) Preparation
c) Prayer
d) Meditation
THE PRACTICE OF FASTING IN THE DAYS OF JESUS
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The fast of the hypocrites Matthew 6:16
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Rejection of this fast
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The correct way to fast Matthew 6:17
WHY THE DISCIPLES OF THE LORD DID NOT FAST
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Query from two groups of people
a) The disciples of John
b) The Pharisees
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Why do the disciples of Jesus not fast Mark 2:18; Matthew 9:14; Luke 5:33-35
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The answer of the Lord Jesus
a) His Presence
b) Parable of the Bridegroom
c) There will come a day when there will be fasting
Luke 5:35; Matthew 9:15; Mark 2:20
THE PERSONAL PRACTICE OF FASTING
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Pre-requisites
a) There is understanding of the practice of fasting
b) It is not something to be seen as meritorious
c) It is not an attempt to force God’s hand
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Personal
a) It is personal practice
b) You cannot impose this on anyone
c) It is something that is desired personally
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On the outside