A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

Ses s i on 4: Cu l t i vat i ng Our Commun i on: The I nward Di sc i p l i nes 147

they were given a wider historical rationale, and the Purim fast (following Esther 4.16) was added to them. Zechariah urges that these fasts be continued on the understanding that they are “seasons of joy and gladness” now that the Temple has been rebuilt. In post-exilic prophecy, the need for fasting to be accompanied by sincerity and charity is stressed (e.g., Isa. 58.3–9; Joel passim, e.g., 2.12–13)” (D. N. Freedman, The Anchor Bible Dictionary . Vol. 2. [Electronic ed.]. New York: Doubleday: 1996, c1992, page 774).

b. The Didache prescribed two fasts for believers, one on Wednesday and Friday, and regular fasting was made mandatory at the Second Council of Orleans in the 6th century.

c. While no biblical injunctions in the NT require fasting (is it assumed in Matt. 6.16?), we are free to observe fasting for any of the very legitimate reasons given above (cf. 2 Cor. 11.27 from the “apostle of freedom”).

D. Practical concerns

1. Take the time to understand the biblical teaching regarding fasting, especially as it relates to Jesus and the apostles (whose Word provides us with authoritative, progressive revelation about the nature of fasting for the Church). 2. Begin easy: “as with all the Disciplines, a progression should be observed; it is wise to learn to walk well before we try to run. Begin with a partial fast of twenty-four hours duration . . .” (Foster, Celebration of Discipline , p. 57.)