Abuse of Fasting in the Present Generation

Introduction

Fasting has long been a significant spiritual discipline within Christianity, practiced by believers as a means of drawing closer to God, seeking divine intervention, and demonstrating repentance. However, in recent years, there has been growing concern about the misuse and abuse of fasting within contemporary Christian communities. This literature review explores various perspectives on this issue, drawing from theological, psychological, and sociocultural sources to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.

Theologically, fasting is rooted in biblical traditions, with numerous references in both the Old and New Testaments. For instance, Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2), and the early church practiced fasting as a means of seeking God’s guidance (Acts 13:2-3). However, modern interpretations and applications of fasting have sometimes strayed from these scriptural foundations. According to Richard Foster in his book “Celebration of Discipline” (1978), there is a risk of fasting becoming a mere ritualistic practice devoid of its intended spiritual significance. Foster argues that when fasting is used as a means of manipulating God or as a display of piety, it loses its true purpose and can lead to spiritual pride.

Psychologically, the abuse of fasting can have detrimental effects on individuals’ mental and physical health. Research by Dr. John Piper in “A Hunger for God” (1997) highlights the potential for fasting to be misused as a form of self-punishment or control, particularly among individuals with tendencies toward perfectionism or eating disorders. Piper emphasizes the importance of approaching fasting with a healthy mindset, recognizing it as a voluntary act of devotion rather than a compulsory or punitive measure. The misuse of fasting in this context can lead to serious health issues, including malnutrition, dehydration, and psychological distress.

Socioculturally, the contemporary Christian community is influenced by broader societal trends that can impact the practice of fasting. In her article “Fasting in the Age of Instagram” (2019), sociologist Dr. Sarah Johnson examines how social media platforms have transformed the way fasting is perceived and practiced. Johnson argues that the public sharing of fasting experiences can create pressure to conform to certain standards or to use fasting as a means of gaining social approval. This shift towards performative fasting can detract from its spiritual essence and contribute to unhealthy competitive behaviors among believers.

Abuse of Fasting in the Present Generation