Luke 5:33-35·~1 min
Questions about Fasting
The questioners note that others fast while Jesus’ disciples keep eating and drinking, and Jesus answers that guests do not fast while the bridegroom is present, though fasting will come after he is taken away.
T33hen they said to Him, “John’s disciples and those of the Pharisees frequently fast and pray, but Yours keep on eating and drinking.” 34Jesus replied, “Can you make the guests of the bridegroom fast while He is with them? 35But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.”
Section summaryThe questioners contrast the fasting habits around John and the Pharisees with Jesus’ own followers, who keep eating and drinking. Jesus answers with the image of wedding guests, saying fasting will come when the bridegroom is taken away.
Role in the chapterThis brief exchange sets joy and absence as the terms for fasting.