Fasting: Training Your Appetite

Fasting 101

1. What is fasting?



Fasting is: ABSTAINING from food (and/or other things for measured periods of time in order to heighten my HUNGER for the things of God.


Fasting is not:

• SELF-PUNISHMENT
• SELF-SERVING
• A BARGAINING CHIP
• A WAY TO GET GOD'S ATTENTION


2. Why do we fast?
   

   
   Fasting is:

   Fasting is not:

   
   

   "Jesus, why do John's disciples and the Pharisees fast, but not your disciples?" (Mk 2:18)

   
   
   1. You can't fast while you CELEBRATE. (Mk 2:19-20)
   
   
   2. You can't add RELATIONSHIP to RELIGION . (Mk 2:21-22)

Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!

Small Group Questions (Whole Group):
Read Mark 2:18-22

1. Why do you think the disciples of John and the Pharisees were bent out of shape about Jesus’ disciples not fasting?
    
2. Was Jesus saying fasting is obsolete (see Matthew 6:16-18)? What would the purpose be of fasting today, if it is not something to make you “holier”?
    
3. What was Jesus’ point about His two stories (the garment/patch and the wine/wineskins)? What are ways people try to mix the old (Law, religious works) and the new (Gospel, grace)? Why can’t you mix the old and the new?

Breakout Questions:

1. When was the last time you fasted? Is there a reason for you to fast in this season of your life?
    
2. Pray for one another.