This small corner of the Internet where this website The Biblical Truth operates under the influence and truth of the Holy Scriptures, the Bible. Each article is based on the validity of Biblical references and not denominations. Which brings me to the topic of discussion today.
The Observance of Lent.
According to Wikipedia:
Lent (Latin: Quadragesima,’Fortieth’) is the solemn Christian religious observance in the liturgical year commemorating the 40 days Jesus Christ spent fasting in the desert and enduring temptation by Satan, according to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, before beginning his public ministry. Lent is observed in the Anglican, Eastern Orthodox, Lutheran, Methodist, Moravian, Oriental Orthodox, Persian, United Protestant and Roman Catholic traditions. Some Anabaptist, Baptist, Reformed (including certain Continental Reformed, Presbyterian and Congregationalist churches), and nondenominational Christian churches also observe Lent, although many churches in these traditions do not.
On February 22nd until April 8th Lent is observed by many individuals across the world. An observance that occurs during the 40 days leading up to Easter Sunday, which marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The origin of Lent can be traced back to the early church, although the exact date of its inception is not known. The earliest records of Lent date back to the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, where it was established as a period of fasting and preparation for new converts to Christianity.
The word “Lent” comes from the Old English word “lencten,” which means “springtime.” Lent is traditionally a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection on one’s spiritual life. It is meant to be a period of sacrifice and penance, as Christians prepare themselves for the celebration of Easter.
During Lent, many Christians give up something they enjoy as a form of sacrifice and self-discipline. This might include things like certain foods, social media, or other activities that they find distracting or indulgent. In addition to fasting, people often engage in additional prayer and charitable works during Lent.
In my discussion with several friends of different faiths, I see that everyone has a different opinion and belief of why they practice Lent. Don’t get me wrong, I see nothing wrong with setting aside specific days for spiritual growth and acts of renewal, and reflection. However, the Bible is clear about how we are to live our lives as close to the life of Jesus as we possibly can.
Jesus did not practice Lent as we know it today, as the observance of Lent developed in the centuries after his death and resurrection.
There are some parallels between Jesus’ experience in the wilderness and the themes of self-discipline, sacrifice, and spiritual growth that are emphasized during Lent. According to the Bible, Jesus went into the wilderness for 40 days and nights immediately after being baptized by John the Baptist. The Gospel of Matthew states that Jesus was “led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil” (Matthew 4:1). The exact age of Jesus at this time is not specified in the Bible. However, it is generally believed that Jesus was 28-30 years old at the time of his baptism and temptation in the wilderness.
In addition, the early Christian church placed great emphasis on fasting and other forms of self-denial as a means of drawing closer to God and cultivating spiritual discipline. This emphasis on fasting and penitence is reflected in various passages in the New Testament, such as Matthew 6:16-18 and Luke 18:9-14.
After his fast in the wilderness, Jesus began his public ministry, which lasted for approximately three years. During this time, he traveled throughout Galilee and Judea, preaching and performing miracles, and gaining a large following of disciples.
Eventually, Jesus’ teachings and actions attracted the attention of the religious authorities, who viewed him as a threat to their authority and influence. This led to his arrest, trial, and eventual crucifixion, which is believed to have taken place around 33 AD.
So, while there is no direct connection between Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness and his crucifixion, his experiences during that time likely shaped his teachings and ministry in significant ways.
Biblical Truth does not speak of Lent or to be practiced 40 days before the crucifixion of Christ. As you can see from the above article Jesus was “led into the wilderness” for 40 days and nights to prepare for his 3-year ministry on earth. Until his time of death.
But as mentioned, there is nothing wrong with setting aside time to observe one’s own life and give up something for a time in honor and spiritual connection with Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Disclaimer: views expressed here inform readers that the opinions and thoughts expressed on this platform reflect only the author’s views.
