Mat 9:14 | MHM | STEP | Christ's Reply to the Disciples of John In this passage, some people question why Jesus’ disciples do not fast as often as others do. These questions give Jesus the chance to teach important lessons about true religion and the right time for different spiritual practices. Sometimes, criticism and questions can help bring out deeper truths. Here, Jesus explains why his disciples act differently and shows his care for them. He also teaches that following him is not about copying others, but about understanding God’s timing and our own spiritual growth. v. 14 : The disciples of John came to Jesus and asked, Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast? (Matthew 9:14 ). They were proud of their own fasting and thought Jesus’ disciples were not strict enough. Sometimes, people judge others by their own standards and think their way is the only right way. The Pharisees may have encouraged John’s disciples to ask this question, hoping to cause division. But Jesus’ followers should not judge each other by outward actions alone.

‏ Matthew 9:14

Christ's Reply to the Disciples of John

In this passage, some people question why Jesus’ disciples do not fast as often as others do. These questions give Jesus the chance to teach important lessons about true religion and the right time for different spiritual practices. Sometimes, criticism and questions can help bring out deeper truths. Here, Jesus explains why his disciples act differently and shows his care for them. He also teaches that following him is not about copying others, but about understanding God’s timing and our own spiritual growth.

v. 14: The disciples of John came to Jesus and asked, Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast? (Matthew 9:14 ^a). They were proud of their own fasting and thought Jesus’ disciples were not strict enough. Sometimes, people judge others by their own standards and think their way is the only right way. The Pharisees may have encouraged John’s disciples to ask this question, hoping to cause division. But Jesus’ followers should not judge each other by outward actions alone.