The Question about Fasting

18 The disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees made a practice of fasting. Some people confronted Jesus: "Why do the followers of John and the Pharisees take on the discipline of fasting, but your followers don't?" 19 Jesus said, "When you're celebrating a wedding, you don't skimp on the cake and wine. You feast. Later you may need to pull in your belt, but not now. As long as the bride and groom are with you, you have a good time. No one throws cold water on a friendly bonfire. This is Kingdom Come!" 20  21 He went on, "No one cuts up a fine silk scarf to patch old work clothes; you want fabrics that match. 22 And you don't put your wine in cracked bottles."

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Mark 2:18-22

Commentary on Mark 2:18-22

(Read Mark 2:18-22)

Strict professors are apt to blame all that do not fully come up to their own views. Christ did not escape slanders; we should be willing to bear them, as well as careful not to deserve them; but should attend to every part of our duty in its proper order and season.