Jesus fasted in Luke 4:
Thayer's Greek Lexicon:
Acts 14:
Mark 9:
There is no commandment requiring a Christian to fast. However, you want to fast is up to you. It is a good idea on some special occasions, e.g., during Lent. Let your conscience guide you in this.
See also
John's disciples fasted, Matthew 9:1 And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness 2 for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry.
G3522. νηστεύω (nésteuó) occurs 20 times.14 Then the disciples of John came to him, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast [G3522], but your disciples do not fast?” 15 And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.
Thayer's Greek Lexicon:
Fasting and prayer are often paired on special occasions, Acts 13:to abstain as a religious exercise from food and drink
It is not just prayer but prayer and fasting to humble ourselves before an important decision. Fasting served to intensify prayer.2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.
Acts 14:
In both cases, the disciples fasted before making the important appointments that had long-reaching consequences. Fasting solemnizes the souls to listen to God.23 Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.
Mark 9:
Strictly speaking, G3522-fast has to do with food and drink. Metaphorically, it can be expanded somewhat. Corinthians 7:29 Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
Are Christians required to fast today?5 Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
There is no commandment requiring a Christian to fast. However, you want to fast is up to you. It is a good idea on some special occasions, e.g., during Lent. Let your conscience guide you in this.
See also