Matthew 6:16
Verse
Context
Proper Fasting
15But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours.16When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.17But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,
Sermons
Leonard Ravenhill
Bill McLeod
Roy Pointer
James Malachi Jennings
David Servant
Shane Idleman
Carter ConlonSummary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Moreover, when ye fast--referring, probably, to private and voluntary fasting, which was to be regulated by each individual for himself; though in spirit it would apply to any fast. be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces--literally, "make unseen"; very well rendered "disfigure." They went about with a slovenly appearance, and ashes sprinkled on their head. that they may appear unto men to fast--It was not the deed, but reputation for the deed which they sought; and with this view those hypocrites multiplied their fasts. And are the exhausting fasts of the Church of Rome, and of Romanizing Protestants, free from this taint? Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Moreover when ye fast,.... This is to be understood, not so much of their public stated fasts, and which were by divine appointment, as of their private fasts; which, with the Jews, were very frequent and numerous, and particularly every Monday and Thursday; see Luk 18:12 in which they affected great severity, and is here condemned by Christ: be not as the hypocrites, the Scribes and Pharisees, of a sad countenance; who put on very mournful airs, and dismal looks; made wry faces, and distorted countenances; banished all pleasantry and cheerfulness from them, so that they looked quite like other men than they really were; for they disfigure their faces; not by covering them out of sight, by putting a veil over them, as some have thought; but they neglected to wash their faces, and make them clean, as at other times; and not only so, but put ashes upon their heads, and other methods they used: they discoloured their faces, or "made" them "black", as the Arabic version reads it; that they might look as if they became so through fasting: and such persons were in great esteem, and thought to be very religious. It is said (f), in commendation of R. Joshua ben Chanamah, that all his days , "his face was black", through fastings; and this is said (g) to be the reason of Ashur's name, in Ch1 4:5 because "his face was black" with fasting: yea, they looked upon such a disfiguring of the face to be meritorious, and what would be rewarded hereafter. "Whoever (say they (h)) , "makes his face black", on account of the law in this world, God will make his brightness to shine in the world to come.'' Now these practices they used, that they might appear unto men to fast: so that either they did not really fast, when they pretended to it; only put on these outward appearances, that men might think they did; or, not content with real fasting, which they must be conscious of themselves, and God knew, they took such methods, that it might appear to men that they fasted, and that they might be taken notice of, and applauded by them: for their view in fasting was not to satisfy their own consciences, or please God, but that they might have glory of men. Hence, says Christ, verily I say unto you, they have their reward; they obtain what they seek for, honour from men, and that is all they will have. (f) Juchasin, fol. 59. 1. (g) T. Bab. Sota, fol. 12. 1. (h) T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 100. 1.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We are here cautioned against hypocrisy in fasting, as before in almsgiving, and in prayer. I. It is here supposed that religious fasting is a duty required of the disciples of Christ, when God, in his providence, calls to it, and when the case of their own souls upon any account requires it; when the bridegroom is taken away, then shall they fast, Mat 9:15. Fasting is here put last, because it is not so much a duty for its own sake, as a means to dispose us for other duties. Prayer comes in between almsgiving and fasting, as being the life and soul of both. Christ here speaks especially of private fasts, such as particular persons prescribe to themselves, as free-will offerings, commonly used among the pious Jews; some fasted one day, some two, every week; others seldomer, as they saw cause. On those days they did not eat till sun-set, and then very sparingly. It was not the Pharisee's fasting twice in the week, but his boasting of it, that Christ condemned, Luk 18:12. It is a laudable practice, and we have reason to lament it, that is so generally neglected among Christians. Anna was much in fasting, Luk 2:37. Cornelius fasted and prayed, Act 10:30. The primitive Christians were much in it, see Act 13:3; Act 14:23. Private fasting is supposed, Co1 7:5. It is an act of self-denial, and mortification of the flesh, a holy revenge upon ourselves, and humiliation under the hand of God. The most grown Christians must hereby own, they are so far from having any thing to be proud of, that they are unworthy of their daily bread. It is a means to curb the flesh and the desires of it, and to make us more lively in religious exercises, as fulness of bread is apt to make us drowsy. Paul was in fastings often, and so he kept under this body, and brought it into subjection. II. We are cautioned not to do this as the hypocrites did it, lest we lose the reward of it; and the more difficulty attends the duty, the greater loss it is to lose the reward of it. Now, 1. The hypocrites pretended fasting, when there was nothing of that contrition or humiliation of soul in them, which is the life and soul of the duty. Theirs were mock-fasts, the show and shadow without the substance; they took on them to be more humbled than really they were, and so endeavored to put a cheat upon God, than which they could not put a greater affront upon him. The fast that God has chosen, is a day to afflict the soul, not to hang down the head like a bulrush, nor for a man to spread sackcloth and ashes under him; we are quite mistaken if we call this a fast, Isa 58:5. Bodily exercise, if that be all, profits little, since that is not fasting to God, even to him. 2. They proclaimed their fasting, and managed it so that all who saw them might take notice that it was a fasting-day with them. Even on these days they appeared in the streets, whereas they should have been in their closets; and the affected a downcast look, a melancholy countenance, a slow and solemn pace; and perfectly disfigured themselves, that men might see how often they fasted, and might extol them as devout, mortified men. Note, It is sad that men, who have, in some measure, mastered their pleasure, which is sensual wickedness, should be ruined by their pride, which is spiritual wickedness, and no less dangerous. Here also they have their reward, that praise and applause of men which they court and covet so much; they have it, and it is their all. III. We are directed how to manage a private fast; we must keep it in private, Mat 6:17, Mat 6:18. He does not tell us how often we must fast; circumstances vary, and wisdom is profitable therein to direct; the Spirit in the word has left that to the Spirit in the heart; but take this for a rule, whenever you undertake this duty, study therein to approve yourselves to God, and not to recommend yourselves to the good opinion of men; humility must evermore attend upon our humiliation. Christ does not direct to abate any thing of the reality of the fast; he does not say,"take a little meat, or a little drink, or a little cordial;" no, "let the body suffer, but lay aside the show and appearance of it; appear with thy ordinary countenance, guise, and dress; and while thou deniest thyself thy bodily refreshments, do it so as that it may not be taken notice of, no, not by those that are nearest to thee; look pleasant, anoint thine head and wash thy face, as thou dost on ordinary days, on purpose to conceal thy devotion; and thou shalt be no loser in the praise of it at last; for though it be not of men, it shall be of God." Fasting is the humbling of the soul (Psa 35:13), that is the inside of the duty; let that therefore be thy principal care, and as to the outside of it, covet not to let it be seen. If we be sincere in our solemn fasts, and humble, and trust God's omniscience for our witness, and his goodness for our reward, we shall find, both that he did see in secret, and will reward openly. Religious fasts, if rightly kept, will shortly be recompensed with an everlasting feast. Our acceptance with God in our private fasts should make us dead, both to the applause of men (we must not do the duty in hopes of this), and to the censures of men too (we must not decline the duty for fear of them). David's fasting was turned to his reproach, Psa 69:10; and yet, Psa 69:13, As for me, let them say what they will of me, my prayer is unto thee in an acceptable time.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:16 Prayer and fasting are frequently connected (Lev 23:27-32; Neh 9:1-2; Zech 7:3-5; 8:19; Luke 18:12). The practice had been abused before Jesus’ time (Isa 58:3-12).
Matthew 6:16
Proper Fasting
15But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours.16When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.17But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Repent, Repent, Repent
By Leonard Ravenhill10K1:23:53RepentancePSA 51:3PRO 29:1MAT 6:16JHN 8:112CO 5:17HEB 12:11JN 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preparing for the final judgment. He mentions preaching for three and a half hours on the judgment seat and expresses his fear and awe of it. The preacher also discusses the misconception about the apostle Paul's words in Romans 7, clarifying that it is a funeral march while Romans 8 is a wedding march. He shares a story about a man repenting during a sermon on adultery, highlighting the power of God's glory to expose the human heart. The sermon concludes with the preacher discussing the liberation and emancipation that comes from the Spirit of God.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
The Fruit of Obedience
By Roy Pointer1.0K35:26EZR 8:21MAT 6:16MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Nehemiah chapter 8 and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. He starts by discussing the act of looking in the mirror and how it can reveal our flaws and imperfections. The Word of God is described as powerful and transformative, and the importance of reading and praying is emphasized. The sermon also mentions the example of the people of Israel in Nehemiah's time, who wept over their sins and sought to get right with God through fasting and confession. The speaker also references the contrasting approaches of Charles Simeon and John Wesley in their interpretation and application of the Bible.
An Overview on Biblical Fasting by James Jennings
By James Malachi Jennings69356:55MAT 6:16
This sermon emphasizes the importance of fasting as a spiritual discipline, focusing on seeking God's will, overcoming besetting sins, and deepening intimacy with the Lord. It highlights the need for specific purposes and motivations behind fasting, such as seeking God's guidance, burden for the lost, and revival in personal and church life. Practical tips, caution against wrong motives, and encouragement to draw near to God through fasting are shared.
Sermon on the Mount - Part 15
By David Servant65828:30MAT 6:16MAT 6:19
This sermon delves into the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on the importance of motives behind devotional practices like fasting. Jesus warns against hypocrisy and emphasizes the need to lay up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, highlighting the temporal nature of earthly possessions. The sermon also touches on the dangers of being deceived by riches and the significance of investing in eternal treasures.
10 Signs of a Healthy Church
By Shane Idleman59056:27MAT 6:16ACT 13:2This sermon delves into the importance of spiritual disciplines like prayer and fasting in a healthy church and individual Christian life. It emphasizes the need to remove distractions, engage in spiritual warfare, and prioritize joy and the Holy Spirit. The sermon also highlights the significance of baptism as a declaration of faith and the necessity to end excuses hindering spiritual growth.
When You Fast
By Carter Conlon38716:31Spiritual DisciplineFastingMAT 6:16Carter Conlon emphasizes the significance of fasting as a spiritual discipline, asserting that Jesus assumed His followers would fast. He explains that fasting helps clear the mind, fosters self-denial, and deepens our awareness of our need for God. Conlon encourages believers to fast sincerely and in secret, promising that God will reward those who do so openly. He shares personal experiences and biblical examples to illustrate the power of fasting in seeking God's intervention in our lives and communities. Ultimately, he calls the church to embrace fasting as a means to bring about deliverance and transformation in society.
21-Day Fast Testimony
By Shane Idleman4056:08Spiritual DisciplineFastingMAT 6:16Shane Idleman addresses the recent legislation in New York regarding late-term abortion, expressing deep concern for future generations. He emphasizes the power of prayer and fasting as essential tools for Christians to combat societal issues and grow spiritually. Shane shares personal experiences and testimonies from a 21-day fast, highlighting the importance of self-control and spiritual discipline in overcoming fleshly desires. He encourages the congregation to engage in fasting as a means to deepen their relationship with God and to seek clarity and strength in their spiritual lives. Ultimately, Shane calls for a collective movement among Christians to contend for righteousness through prayer and fasting.
Fasting for 20/20 Spiritual Vision
By Shane Idleman2049:25FastingSpiritual ClarityMAT 6:16Shane Idleman emphasizes the significance of fasting for achieving 20/20 spiritual vision, urging the church to engage in a corporate fast to enhance their spiritual clarity and connection with God. He explains that fasting is not merely about abstaining from food but is a spiritual discipline that humbles the heart and aligns one's desires with God's will. Idleman highlights the physical and spiritual benefits of fasting, including improved health and a deeper relationship with God, while cautioning against the pitfalls of a wrong attitude during fasting. He encourages believers to approach fasting with purpose, persistence, and prayer, asserting that it can lead to powerful breakthroughs in their lives and communities. Ultimately, he calls for a return to fasting as a vital practice in the life of the church.
Mis Direction - Failure Is Not Final
By Shane Idleman1949:45FastingGod's PromisesGEN 15:6PRO 16:9ISA 64:1JOL 1:14MAT 6:16ROM 8:28ROM 8:38Shane Idleman emphasizes that failure is not final and encourages believers to seek God's direction through fasting and prayer, especially in light of the moral decline in society. He calls for a corporate fast for the nation, urging individuals to starve their flesh and seek a deeper relationship with God. Idleman highlights the importance of believing in God's promises, even when circumstances seem dire, and reminds the congregation that misdirection can lead to growth and learning. He reassures that God hears the cries of His people and that nothing can separate them from His love, encouraging them to strengthen themselves in the Lord amidst challenges.
Transformed by Fasting: One Pastor's 40 Day Fasting Journey
By Shane Idleman1717:15Spiritual AwakeningFasting2CH 7:14JOL 1:14MAT 6:16Shane Idleman shares his transformative 40-day fasting journey, emphasizing the urgent need for spiritual awakening in America, which he describes as suffering from 'stage four spiritual cancer.' He argues that fasting and prayer are essential remedies for the spiritual decline affecting all areas of life, and that desperate times call for desperate measures. Idleman encourages believers to prepare their hearts for God's intervention, highlighting the physical and spiritual benefits of fasting. He reflects on the importance of humility and seeking God, asserting that true healing requires a return to prayer and fasting. Ultimately, he calls for a corporate fast to ignite revival and restore hope in a broken nation.
Fasting Tip - Breakthrough Is Right Around the Corner
By Shane Idleman1508:48FastingSpiritual BreakthroughMAT 6:16Shane Idleman emphasizes the significance of fasting as a spiritual discipline that strengthens the spirit while diminishing the flesh's control over our lives. He encourages a corporate fast, suggesting practical starting points for individuals, and highlights the biblical foundation of fasting as a means to overcome addictions and draw closer to God. Idleman warns against the detrimental effects of unhealthy eating habits on our bodies and families, advocating for a lifestyle change that prioritizes spiritual nourishment over physical cravings. He shares personal experiences of fasting, illustrating the emotional and spiritual breakthroughs that can occur when one perseveres through the challenges of fasting. Ultimately, he asserts that true victory comes when the flesh is starved and the spirit is fed, leading to a deeper connection with God.
The Pain of Discipline Over the Pain of Regret
By Shane Idleman1459:19FastingDisciplinePSA 94:12MAT 6:16ROM 6:161CO 9:261CO 10:13GAL 5:22PHP 4:132TI 1:7HEB 12:111PE 5:8Shane Idleman emphasizes the necessity of discipline in the Christian life, contrasting the pain of discipline with the pain of regret. He argues that true growth and spiritual maturity require self-control and the ability to deny fleshly desires, particularly in the context of fasting. Idleman highlights that while discipline may be uncomfortable, it leads to a more fulfilling and spiritually enriched life, whereas regret from a lack of discipline can have long-lasting consequences. He encourages the congregation to prepare for fasting by first addressing their physical appetites and urges them to seek a deeper relationship with God through discipline. The sermon sets the stage for a deeper exploration of fasting in the following week.
Fasting Over Forks pt.1
By Shane Idleman1254:51Spiritual WarfareFastingMAT 6:16Shane Idleman emphasizes the significance of fasting as a spiritual discipline, likening it to farming where we create an environment for growth. He discusses how fasting helps to break strongholds in our lives, allowing us to gain control over our appetites and desires, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with God. Shane highlights that fasting is not merely about abstaining from food but about realigning our hearts with God's will and experiencing spiritual empowerment. He encourages the congregation to consider fasting as a means to overcome personal struggles and to seek God's direction in their lives. The message serves as a call to action for believers to engage in fasting as a vital part of their spiritual journey.
Fasting Over Forks pt.2
By Shane Idleman1255:58FastingSpiritual GrowthMAT 6:16Shane Idleman emphasizes the significance of fasting as a means to strengthen our spiritual lives and draw closer to God, presenting it as a delight rather than a burden. He explains the internal struggle between the flesh and the spirit, urging believers to starve the flesh through fasting to empower the spirit. Fasting is portrayed as a discipline that not only enhances spiritual health but also impacts physical well-being, encouraging a holistic approach to stewardship of the body. Shane challenges the congregation to consider fasting as a tool for spiritual breakthroughs and deeper communion with God, while also addressing the importance of living righteously to ensure effective prayer. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to fasting and prayer as essential practices for spiritual growth and overcoming life's challenges.
Fasting Forum (pt.2): What Works, What Doesn't, & Why
By Shane Idleman1138:16FastingSpiritual GrowthMAT 6:16Shane Idleman discusses the true nature of fasting, emphasizing that it involves abstaining from all food and drink except water, and clarifying misconceptions about juice and Daniel fasts. He encourages listeners to start small, focusing on prayer and spiritual growth rather than the length of the fast, and highlights the importance of medical supervision for those on medication. Shane also addresses the benefits of fasting for both physical and spiritual health, explaining how it helps to detoxify the body and diminish fleshly appetites. He stresses the need for wisdom in health matters and the importance of refeeding correctly after a fast, urging a shift towards healthier eating habits post-fasting.
Fasting: Where Breakthrough Begins
By Shane Idleman111:11:30FastingSpiritual BreakthroughMAT 6:16Shane Idleman emphasizes the transformative power of fasting as a spiritual discipline that leads to breakthroughs in both spiritual and physical health. He shares personal experiences and insights from his book, 'Feasting and Fasting,' highlighting how fasting reveals what controls us and fosters a deeper hunger for God. Idleman argues that fasting not only humbles us but also creates an environment for healing and spiritual growth, urging believers to apply pressure in the spiritual realm through prayer and fasting. He encourages the congregation to consider their health and spiritual well-being, advocating for a lifestyle of discipline and stewardship over one's body as a gift from God.
Fasting Forum (pt.3): My Fasting Experience / Q&a
By Shane Idleman1025:37FastingSpiritual GrowthMAT 6:16Shane Idleman shares his personal fasting experience over 22 days, emphasizing that fasting is not just about physical health but about glorifying God. He discusses the challenges faced during fasting, including feelings of hunger and moodiness, and highlights the spiritual breakthroughs that can occur. Shane encourages listeners to focus on spiritual health as a priority and to make wise dietary choices post-fast. He stresses that fasting is a journey of learning and growth, and that setbacks should not deter one from pursuing a healthier lifestyle. Ultimately, he reminds the audience that the goal is not perfection but progress in their spiritual and physical well-being.
Lean, Mean, Fasting Machine
By Shane Idleman851:23Spiritual DisciplineFastingMAT 6:16Shane Idleman challenges the congregation to embrace fasting as a means of spiritual discipline, emphasizing that denying the flesh leads to greater spiritual hunger and connection with God. He discusses the importance of humility in fasting, the necessity of prayer alongside fasting, and the need to confront and discipline our appetites for a deeper relationship with God. Idleman warns against the dangers of complacency and encourages believers to be 'lean, mean, fasting machines' in their spiritual lives, actively fighting against the flesh and the enemy. He highlights that true fasting is about seeking God and aligning our hearts with His will, rather than merely following a formula or tradition.
Miscellaneous
By Harmon A. Baldwin0PSA 34:4PSA 51:10MAT 6:16LUK 11:9GAL 5:25PHP 2:121TH 5:23HEB 11:6JAS 4:8Harmon A. Baldwin emphasizes the importance of being led by the Spirit in the quest for God, urging believers to open their hearts before God, acknowledge their troubles, and talk faith while shunning unbelief. He highlights the power of faith in cleansing and the need for patience in seeking God's guidance and sanctification. Baldwin stresses the significance of waiting for the direct witness of the Spirit and avoiding rushing into professions without thorough surrender and examination before God. He encourages humility, persistent prayer, and fasting as vital components in pursuing holiness and perfect love.
Jonathan Edwards: Theologian of Revival
By Erroll Hulse0PSA 25:9EZK 36:37ZEC 12:10MAT 6:16JHN 14:13ROM 11:36GAL 5:22JAS 4:101PE 5:6Erroll Hulse delves into the theological and practical aspects of Jonathan Edwards' teachings on revival, emphasizing the extraordinary work of God in reinvigorating Christian piety, the central role of revivals in God's purposes, and the glorious nature of revivals as the most magnificent work of God. Edwards also addresses the dangers of spiritual pride and false prophecies during revivals, highlighting the importance of humility and discernment. Additionally, he stresses the significance of prayer for revival, pointing out that God's great works are often preceded by the extraordinary prayers of His people.
How to Break a Fast
By Evangelist James Miller0PSA 35:13ISA 58:6JOL 2:12MAT 6:16ACT 13:2Evangelist James Miller shares his personal experience of fasting for 28 days without food, only consuming liquids, during which he continued to preach multiple times a day. He emphasizes the importance of breaking a fast gradually with fresh fruit juices, diluted with water, and then transitioning to thin soup to avoid discomfort. Miller highlights the benefits of fasting, such as giving rest to the stomach and digestive tract, and the spiritual blessings and healing he received from God through fasting.
Pharisees Are Ascetics
By Zac Poonen0Spiritual DisciplineTrue HolinessMAT 6:16MAT 9:14LUK 7:34JAS 3:2Zac Poonen addresses the hypocrisy of the Pharisees who emphasized fasting and asceticism as a means to holiness, contrasting it with Jesus' approach, who fasted out of His holiness rather than to appear holy. He highlights that true spirituality is not about external disciplines but about internal control, particularly over one's speech and thoughts. Poonen points out that Jesus enjoyed life, demonstrated by His first miracle of turning water into wine, which challenged the legalistic mindset of the Pharisees. He warns against boasting about fasting or any spiritual discipline, emphasizing that such acts should be voluntary and not for show. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of holiness that transcends mere external practices.
On Fasting
By St. Paisy of Neamt0PRO 23:20MAT 6:161CO 9:27GAL 5:221TI 4:8St. Paisy of Neamt emphasizes the importance of fasting as a virtue, advocating for a daily practice of eating a little bit to keep the body submissive to the spirit and capable of spiritual labors. He warns against excessive fasting that may lead to weakness and indulgence in delicious foods, highlighting the need for moderation and establishing a definite measure in one's eating habits. The preacher encourages a balanced approach to fasting, citing examples of Saints enduring lengthy fasts for specific purposes and the benefits of a moderate and sensible fast as the foundation of all virtues.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Moreover, when ye fast--referring, probably, to private and voluntary fasting, which was to be regulated by each individual for himself; though in spirit it would apply to any fast. be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces--literally, "make unseen"; very well rendered "disfigure." They went about with a slovenly appearance, and ashes sprinkled on their head. that they may appear unto men to fast--It was not the deed, but reputation for the deed which they sought; and with this view those hypocrites multiplied their fasts. And are the exhausting fasts of the Church of Rome, and of Romanizing Protestants, free from this taint? Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Moreover when ye fast,.... This is to be understood, not so much of their public stated fasts, and which were by divine appointment, as of their private fasts; which, with the Jews, were very frequent and numerous, and particularly every Monday and Thursday; see Luk 18:12 in which they affected great severity, and is here condemned by Christ: be not as the hypocrites, the Scribes and Pharisees, of a sad countenance; who put on very mournful airs, and dismal looks; made wry faces, and distorted countenances; banished all pleasantry and cheerfulness from them, so that they looked quite like other men than they really were; for they disfigure their faces; not by covering them out of sight, by putting a veil over them, as some have thought; but they neglected to wash their faces, and make them clean, as at other times; and not only so, but put ashes upon their heads, and other methods they used: they discoloured their faces, or "made" them "black", as the Arabic version reads it; that they might look as if they became so through fasting: and such persons were in great esteem, and thought to be very religious. It is said (f), in commendation of R. Joshua ben Chanamah, that all his days , "his face was black", through fastings; and this is said (g) to be the reason of Ashur's name, in Ch1 4:5 because "his face was black" with fasting: yea, they looked upon such a disfiguring of the face to be meritorious, and what would be rewarded hereafter. "Whoever (say they (h)) , "makes his face black", on account of the law in this world, God will make his brightness to shine in the world to come.'' Now these practices they used, that they might appear unto men to fast: so that either they did not really fast, when they pretended to it; only put on these outward appearances, that men might think they did; or, not content with real fasting, which they must be conscious of themselves, and God knew, they took such methods, that it might appear to men that they fasted, and that they might be taken notice of, and applauded by them: for their view in fasting was not to satisfy their own consciences, or please God, but that they might have glory of men. Hence, says Christ, verily I say unto you, they have their reward; they obtain what they seek for, honour from men, and that is all they will have. (f) Juchasin, fol. 59. 1. (g) T. Bab. Sota, fol. 12. 1. (h) T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 100. 1.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We are here cautioned against hypocrisy in fasting, as before in almsgiving, and in prayer. I. It is here supposed that religious fasting is a duty required of the disciples of Christ, when God, in his providence, calls to it, and when the case of their own souls upon any account requires it; when the bridegroom is taken away, then shall they fast, Mat 9:15. Fasting is here put last, because it is not so much a duty for its own sake, as a means to dispose us for other duties. Prayer comes in between almsgiving and fasting, as being the life and soul of both. Christ here speaks especially of private fasts, such as particular persons prescribe to themselves, as free-will offerings, commonly used among the pious Jews; some fasted one day, some two, every week; others seldomer, as they saw cause. On those days they did not eat till sun-set, and then very sparingly. It was not the Pharisee's fasting twice in the week, but his boasting of it, that Christ condemned, Luk 18:12. It is a laudable practice, and we have reason to lament it, that is so generally neglected among Christians. Anna was much in fasting, Luk 2:37. Cornelius fasted and prayed, Act 10:30. The primitive Christians were much in it, see Act 13:3; Act 14:23. Private fasting is supposed, Co1 7:5. It is an act of self-denial, and mortification of the flesh, a holy revenge upon ourselves, and humiliation under the hand of God. The most grown Christians must hereby own, they are so far from having any thing to be proud of, that they are unworthy of their daily bread. It is a means to curb the flesh and the desires of it, and to make us more lively in religious exercises, as fulness of bread is apt to make us drowsy. Paul was in fastings often, and so he kept under this body, and brought it into subjection. II. We are cautioned not to do this as the hypocrites did it, lest we lose the reward of it; and the more difficulty attends the duty, the greater loss it is to lose the reward of it. Now, 1. The hypocrites pretended fasting, when there was nothing of that contrition or humiliation of soul in them, which is the life and soul of the duty. Theirs were mock-fasts, the show and shadow without the substance; they took on them to be more humbled than really they were, and so endeavored to put a cheat upon God, than which they could not put a greater affront upon him. The fast that God has chosen, is a day to afflict the soul, not to hang down the head like a bulrush, nor for a man to spread sackcloth and ashes under him; we are quite mistaken if we call this a fast, Isa 58:5. Bodily exercise, if that be all, profits little, since that is not fasting to God, even to him. 2. They proclaimed their fasting, and managed it so that all who saw them might take notice that it was a fasting-day with them. Even on these days they appeared in the streets, whereas they should have been in their closets; and the affected a downcast look, a melancholy countenance, a slow and solemn pace; and perfectly disfigured themselves, that men might see how often they fasted, and might extol them as devout, mortified men. Note, It is sad that men, who have, in some measure, mastered their pleasure, which is sensual wickedness, should be ruined by their pride, which is spiritual wickedness, and no less dangerous. Here also they have their reward, that praise and applause of men which they court and covet so much; they have it, and it is their all. III. We are directed how to manage a private fast; we must keep it in private, Mat 6:17, Mat 6:18. He does not tell us how often we must fast; circumstances vary, and wisdom is profitable therein to direct; the Spirit in the word has left that to the Spirit in the heart; but take this for a rule, whenever you undertake this duty, study therein to approve yourselves to God, and not to recommend yourselves to the good opinion of men; humility must evermore attend upon our humiliation. Christ does not direct to abate any thing of the reality of the fast; he does not say,"take a little meat, or a little drink, or a little cordial;" no, "let the body suffer, but lay aside the show and appearance of it; appear with thy ordinary countenance, guise, and dress; and while thou deniest thyself thy bodily refreshments, do it so as that it may not be taken notice of, no, not by those that are nearest to thee; look pleasant, anoint thine head and wash thy face, as thou dost on ordinary days, on purpose to conceal thy devotion; and thou shalt be no loser in the praise of it at last; for though it be not of men, it shall be of God." Fasting is the humbling of the soul (Psa 35:13), that is the inside of the duty; let that therefore be thy principal care, and as to the outside of it, covet not to let it be seen. If we be sincere in our solemn fasts, and humble, and trust God's omniscience for our witness, and his goodness for our reward, we shall find, both that he did see in secret, and will reward openly. Religious fasts, if rightly kept, will shortly be recompensed with an everlasting feast. Our acceptance with God in our private fasts should make us dead, both to the applause of men (we must not do the duty in hopes of this), and to the censures of men too (we must not decline the duty for fear of them). David's fasting was turned to his reproach, Psa 69:10; and yet, Psa 69:13, As for me, let them say what they will of me, my prayer is unto thee in an acceptable time.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:16 Prayer and fasting are frequently connected (Lev 23:27-32; Neh 9:1-2; Zech 7:3-5; 8:19; Luke 18:12). The practice had been abused before Jesus’ time (Isa 58:3-12).