New Testament
Matthew 9:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of a wedding to explain the joy of His presence among His followers.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Jesus answered, "Do wedding guests mourn while the groom is still with them? Of course not. But the time will come when the groom is taken away from them, and then they'll fast.
And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of a wedding to explain the joy of His presence among His followers. Just as wedding guests celebrate and do not mourn while the bridegroom is present, His disciples should not fast or mourn while He is with them. This indicates that His presence brings joy and fulfillment. However, Jesus also hints at a future time when He will be taken away, suggesting His impending death and departure. At that time, fasting will be appropriate as a sign of mourning and longing for His return. This teaching emphasizes the importance of recognizing the right time for celebration and mourning in the life of faith, highlighting the relationship between Jesus and His followers as one of joy and hope, even amidst future sorrow. Explore related discipleship.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 9:15 to your life
This verse encourages believers to celebrate the presence of Christ in their lives. In times of joy, we should embrace that joy fully, while also recognizing that there are times for mourning and fasting. Understanding the seasons of our spiritual journey helps us grow closer to God.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 9:15 mean about fasting?
In Matthew 9:15, Jesus uses the analogy of a wedding to illustrate that His presence brings joy, much like a bridegroom at a wedding. He indicates that fasting is not appropriate while He is with His disciples, as they should be celebrating His presence. However, He also foreshadows a time when He will be taken away, suggesting that fasting will then be a fitting response to His absence, reflecting a time of mourning and longing for His return.
Why did Jesus compare Himself to a bridegroom?
Jesus compares Himself to a bridegroom in Matthew 9:15 to convey the joy and celebration associated with His presence among His followers. Just as wedding guests rejoice in the presence of the bridegroom, His disciples should experience joy while He is with them. This metaphor emphasizes the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers, highlighting that His presence is a source of happiness and fulfillment in their lives.
When is it appropriate to fast according to this verse?
According to Matthew 9:15, fasting is appropriate during times of mourning or longing, particularly when Jesus is no longer physically present with His followers. This indicates that there are seasons in the spiritual journey where fasting can be a meaningful expression of seeking God, reflecting on one's relationship with Him, and yearning for His return. It teaches believers to discern the right times for celebration and for fasting.
How can I apply Matthew 9:15 in my life?
To apply Matthew 9:15 in your life, recognize the importance of celebrating the presence of Christ during joyful times. Embrace moments of joy and gratitude, understanding that they are gifts from God. Additionally, be mindful of times when fasting may be appropriate, such as during periods of spiritual longing or mourning. This balance helps you grow in your faith and deepens your relationship with God.
The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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