The Significance of Fasting

Fasting, as described in this passage, carries both physical and spiritual dimensions. It is an act of devotion, a discipline that enables the believer to focus on God and seek His will more fervently. The mention of fasting in the context of worship emphasizes its role as a form of self-denial intended to draw the believer closer to God.

Matthew Henry notes that fasting is a means by which the soul can earnestly seek God for guidance and mercy. He emphasizes that the essence of fasting should not merely be ritualistic; rather, it should stem from a sincere desire to communicate with God.

The Purpose of Anointing and Washing

The directive to "anoint your head and wash your face" conveys the importance of maintaining an appropriate outward appearance while fasting. Albert Barnes explains that Christians are called not to display their fasting to others as an act of piety but rather to do so with humility, ensuring that the focus of the fast remains on God rather than on public perception.

This contrasts with the practices of some Pharisees, who would appear disheveled to gain recognition for their fasting. By encouraging a clean appearance, Jesus teaches that the true measure of fasting lies within the heart, not in public acknowledgment.

Inner Intentions versus Outer Actions

Adam Clarke emphasizes the importance of intentions behind actions. He elaborates that an outward expression of piety, such as fasting, is futile if it is not accompanied by a sincere inward pursuit of God. Clarke argues that Jesus’ directive encourages believers to keep their spiritual practices hidden from public scrutiny, as the aim of fasting is to deepen their relationship with God rather than to gain human approval.

This principle urges believers to examine their motives for spiritual disciplines, encouraging authenticity and transparency before God, which is essential for spiritual growth.

The Reward of the Fast

Jesus concludes this teaching with the promise of secret rewards for those who fast with the right heart condition: "and your Father who sees in secret will reward you" (Matthew 6:18, also often connected to verse 17). As noted by Henry, this highlights the personal and intimate nature of God's rewards, contrasting with temporal, human acknowledgment.

The concept of divine reward for godly actions performed in secret invites believers to cultivate a more profound reliance on God rather than seeking the approval of people. As Clarke mentions, this provides a profound encouragement to engage in practices that enhance spiritual intimacy, promising deeper spiritual riches that far surpass earthly validation.

Applications for Contemporary Believers

• Authenticity in Worship: Believers are encouraged to evaluate their motives in spiritual practices, ensuring that their pursuits are genuinely for God's glory rather than personal pride.
• Discipleship and Accountability: Fasting can be a valuable practice for growth and accountability within the church, but it should be approached with a focus on seeking God rather than public acknowledgment.
• Community Engagement: While individual fasting is crucial, believers are encouraged to engage in communal fasting, fostering a sense of unity in seeking God's presence and guidance as a church body.

Conclusion

Matthew 6:17 encapsulates profound insight into the nature of fasting as a spiritual discipline that should be pursued with sincerity and humility. Drawing from the wisdom of public domain commentaries, we observe that fasting is a personal journey to deeper intimacy with God, devoid of the need for public validation. By keeping our fasting private, we align ourselves with Jesus's teaching and invite God to reward our devotion in ways that perpetuate our spiritual growth and relationship with Him.