New Patches on Old

Jesus has stepped into the world to demonstrate what ‘true righteousness’ is.

When asked, “Why do John’s disciples fast but yours don’t?” Jesus’ response is deep, clear, and concise.

Jesus does not say fasting is not good but indicates that his disciples will fast. They are still to truly understand the right meaning of fasting – after Jesus leaves the earth.

He also indicates that with Him around, that reason for fasting does not exist – he is here to help us conquer sin and reconcile with the Father. He is the bridegroom, uniting the Church to God through Himself.

Reasons for Fasting

Jesus himself fasts at the start of his ministry. Fasting can occur for spiritual strengthening and God’s guidance as well.

The prime reason, indicated in this passage, is to mourn. In Matt 5:4, Jesus says, “Blessed are those who mourn.” Mourning implies lamenting over sins. Jesus explains and demonstrates genuine righteous fasting, contrasting with religious fasting, which may not touch the soul.

Religious Fasting

Jesus gives the example of not putting old wine in new wineskins. In new wineskins, gases exert pressure. Old wineskins are hardened like the hardened mindset of Pharisees. Jesus also gives the example of putting new patches on old garments. External religious deeds are like new patches on old garments or lives.

The fasting of the Pharisees demonstrated:

· Superficial righteousness – Jesus warned that this righteousness alone would not lead to the kingdom – Matt 5:20

· Superior attitude – The Pharisee's prayer clearly shows this self-righteous attitude – Luke 18:9-14. Their condemnation of Jesus just before this passage in Matt 9:3 also demonstrates this.

· Self-destruction – Jesus warns of the result. “the skins will burst” – their proud, empty bodies will face the wrath of God.

Righteous Fasting

Righteous fasting is coupled with an attitude of sorrow over sin. Repentance is the key lever to spiritual growth. Repentance accompanied by deep grief is symbolized by fasting. Without true repentance, fasting is meaningless.

In the book of Hosea, God is the bridegroom. A Jewish wedding involves feasting for seven days, followed by fasting by friends of the bridegroom! Righteous fasting involves spending time to understand Jesus.

The disciples will experience the “new wine” – the “wine of the spirit” and go several notches up in their spiritual experience. The “old wine” and “old wineskins” were fading away.

What “new patches” do we put on our lives to “cover” our old selves? How do we become more genuine? In what ways can we better practice righteous fasting and righteous living?