Review of The Ancient Practices Series: Fasting

This is a review of Scot McKnight's book on Fasting. This book is part of the Thomas Nelson Publishing Company's Ancient Practices series and was provided to me free of charge by Booksneeze. The topic of fasting was presented in a thought-provoking manner. The author introduced the topic by defining fasting as a whole-body natural, inevitable response of a person to a grievous sacred moment. This definition was really contrary to my understanding of the purpose or intent of fasting because it seemed that fasting simply occurred in response to some action of God that had the potential to negatively impact a person. The definition of fasting presented evoked an extremely negative response in me and I almost put the book down without finishing it. I am thankful that I continued to read the text because the author does a good job of supporting and explaining the basis of his chosen fasting definition. Although I am not in total agreement with the author on the definition of fasting, I do agree that fasting can result from a person’s desire and longing for the presence of God. The book is well written and uses many scriptural references. It is not a difficult read, but does promote thought. I would recommend this book to people throughout their spiritual journey.