Introduction
Rediscovering the Power of Fasting
“Some have exalted religious fasting beyond all Scripture and reason; and others have utterly disregarded it.” John Wesley
For centuries, fasting has been a cornerstone of Christian faith, embraced by early believers as a powerful discipline that draws the spirit closer to God. In a world filled with distractions, early Christians saw fasting not just as abstinence from food, but as an intentional path to humility, self-control, and profound communion with God. They understood that fasting was more than an act of self-denial; it was a means of aligning their lives with Christ’s example of sacrifice and deepening their reliance on God’s grace.
Today, fasting often feels like a lost discipline, yet its relevance and transformative power remain as impactful as ever. Through fasting, believers gain a renewed sense of purpose, clearer spiritual vision, and a deeper compassion for others. By looking back to the early Church—saints, theologians, and faithful followers—we can learn how they practiced and cherished fasting, and how this simple but profound act can help us grow in faith.
Join us in rediscovering the gift of fasting as it was understood by early Christians—a key to spiritual strength, peace, and a life more fully devoted to God. Explore its benefits, biblical roots, and timeless guidance to see how fasting can enrich your faith and deepen your walk with the Lord.
Tertullian (2nd Century)
- Bio: Tertullian (c. 155–240 AD), originally from Carthage, was one of the early Church Fathers and a Christian apologist known for his theological and apologetic writings. He converted to Christianity from paganism and became a rigorous defender of Christian doctrines. About Tertullian
- Contribution: Tertullian was instrumental in shaping early Christian practices and teachings, particularly through his writings. His book, De Jejunio (“On Fasting”), defended the practice of fasting, especially in response to groups like the Marcionites, who practiced their own forms of asceticism. He emphasized the importance of fasting as an act of piety, aligning with the life and sacrifice of Christ. Tertullian’s work helped to establish fasting as a regular spiritual discipline among early Christians.
Marcella (4th Century)
- Bio: Marcella (325–410 AD) was a wealthy Roman woman who became a Christian ascetic after the death of her husband. She was a follower of Saint Jerome and is regarded as a saint in the Catholic Church. About Marcella
- Contribution: Marcella turned her home into a center for Christian prayer, study, and fasting. Known for her humility and dedication, she provided a refuge for early Christians, particularly those fleeing persecution, and was deeply involved in charitable works. Marcella’s example and her support for Jerome’s work helped foster a culture of disciplined fasting, prayer, and theological study, creating a model for Christian women in the early church.
Augustine of Hippo (5th Century)
- Bio: Augustine (354–430 AD) was an influential theologian and philosopher whose works have deeply shaped Christian thought. He converted to Christianity after a period of spiritual searching and became the Bishop of Hippo in North Africa. About Augustine of Hippo.
- Contribution: In his numerous works, notably Confessions and City of God, Augustine touched upon the importance of fasting and self-denial as means of drawing closer to God. His teachings emphasized that fasting was not merely about abstaining from food but was part of a larger spiritual discipline. Augustine’s approach influenced the understanding of fasting as a means to cultivate humility and dependence on God, becoming foundational for Christian thought on ascetic practices.
Thomas Aquinas (13th Century)
- Bio: Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274 AD) was an Italian Dominican friar and theologian, whose work synthesizes Christian theology with Aristotelian philosophy. He is one of the most significant medieval thinkers, particularly noted for his Summa Theologica. About Thomas Aquinas
- Contribution: Aquinas wrote extensively on the virtues of fasting as part of his moral theology, exploring how fasting contributes to self-discipline, penance, and spiritual focus. He saw fasting as essential for controlling bodily desires, and as a way to strengthen the soul’s focus on God. Aquinas’s insights have influenced the theological framework surrounding fasting, connecting it to virtues like temperance and charity.
Martin Luther (16th Century)
- Bio: Martin Luther (1483–1546 AD) was a German monk, theologian, and seminal figure of the Protestant Reformation. His 95 Theses sparked major reforms in the Christian Church. About Martin Luther
- Contribution: Although Luther was critical of certain abuses surrounding fasting in the Catholic Church, he upheld fasting as a valuable spiritual discipline when practiced with the right intention. He emphasized that fasting should not be a mere outward ritual but an act that humbles the individual and brings them closer to God. Luther’s writings and teachings on fasting encouraged Protestants to adopt a simpler, more personal approach to the practice, focusing on its spiritual benefits rather than rigid observance.
John Wesley (18th Century)
- Bio: John Wesley (1703–1791 AD) was an Anglican cleric, theologian, and co-founder of the Methodist movement, which played a significant role in the First Great Awakening. About John Wesley
- Contribution: Wesley regularly practiced fasting and encouraged early Methodists to do the same as part of their spiritual discipline. He typically fasted on Wednesdays and Fridays, following ancient Christian traditions. Wesley viewed fasting as essential for developing self-control, humbling oneself before God, and seeking spiritual renewal. His emphasis on fasting helped to integrate this practice into Methodist spirituality and the broader Protestant movement, influencing later evangelical practices.
“She was a woman of true faith, who knew that fasting was not a burden, but a way of drawing near to the Lord, and she led many to do the same.” Marcella
Additional Note on Fasting in Greek
“Nesteia”: The Greek word for fasting, Nesteia (νηστεία), means “to abstain from food.” In early Christian contexts, this abstention was seen as a means to discipline the body, cultivate humility, and draw closer to God.