The Discipline of Fasting Summary and Analysis

Fasting seems unheard of when "fast food" holds such a dominant position in today's society. In biblical times, fasting was quite prevalent. While interest is increasing, fasting needs to be better understood before it is more readily accepted and embraced.

Throughout the Bible, many of the major spiritual people are found fasting; fasting was going without food for spiritual growth. This is in contrast to what many describe as modern fasting, where the goal is political or power-driven. The definition of fasting in the Bible is doing without all solid and liquid foods, but water is consumed unless it is an "absolute fast," which is usually much shorter and specifically in response to a call from God.

Although many Christians voluntarily participate in fasting, whether as an individual or group, there is no law regarding...