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In this episode of Marked by Grace, Pastor Heath Lambert answers a listener question in two parts: what is the significance of fasting, and are Christians required to do it? He explains that fasting means withholding food (or another good gift) in order to shift focus from the gift to the Giver. He then walks through what the New Testament actually teaches about fasting as a spiritual practice, showing that while fasting is assumed throughout Scripture, it is never commanded the way prayer is commanded.

00:13 This week's topic: the significance and requirements of fasting

01:23 What fasting actually means: withholding food to focus on the Giver

02:21 Is fasting required of Christians?

03:07 Matthew 6:16-18: Jesus teaches on fasting in the Sermon on the Mount

04:14 The New Testament assumes fasting but never commands it

05:12 Why the lack of a command gives Christians freedom

06:37 Ephesians 6:18 and the command to pray at all times

07:04 Why fasting pairs with prayer but is not required like prayer is