Luke 5:33

An objection is here made against the disciples of our Saviour, that they did not fast so much and so often, as John Baptist's disciples did. John's disciples imitated their master, who was. man of an austere life; Christ's disciples imitated him who was of. more free conversation.

Observe, therefore, our Saviour's defense, which he makes for the not fasting of his disciples; he declares, that at present it was neither suitable nor tolerable; not suitable, in regard of Christ's bodily presence with them, who being their bridegroom, and his disciples children of the bride-chamber, it was now. day of joy and rejoicing to them, and mourning and fasting would be very improper for them. But when the bridegroom shall be taken away, that is, Christ's bodily presence removed, then there will be cause enough for the disciples to fast and mourn.

Learn hence, 1. That Jesus Christ is the bridegroom of his spouse the church.

2. That this bridegroom was to be taken away.

3. That because of the bridegroom's removal, the church did, shall, and must fast: The days will come when the bridegroom shall be taken away, then shall they fast.

Again our Saviour declares, that this discipline of fasting was not at present tolerable for his disciples, for they were at present but raw, green, and tender, unable to bear the severities and rigors of religion, any more than an old garment can be. piece of new cloth to be set into it, or any more than old bottles can bear new wine to be put into them. The sense of our Saviour's words seems to be this, "My disciples at present are tender and weak, newly called and converted, they cannot therefore at present undergo the austerities of relgion, fastings, weepings, and watchfulness; but before long. shall leave them, and go to heaven, from whence. will send down my Holy Spirit upon them, which will enable them to all the duties that the gospel enjoins."

The lesson of instruction which we may probably gather from hence, is this, that it is hurtful and dangerous for young converts, for weak Christians, to be put upon the severe exercises of religion, or to be urged to the performance of all such duties as are above their strength, but they ought to be treated with that tenderness which becomes the mild and gentle dispensation of the gospel.

Our Saviour, says one, does here commend prudence to his ministers, in treating their people according to their strength, and putting them upon duties according to their time and standing. We must consult what progress our people have made in Christianity, and manage accordingly.