Is Lent Biblical? Why Scripture Fully Supports the Lenten Season

The question “Is Lent biblical?” often begins with a misunderstanding. Critics frequently argue that Lent is not found in the Bible because the word “Lent” does not appear in Scripture. This approach confuses terminology with meaning. Lent is not a word that Christians are commanded to find in the Bible. Lent is a season, a defined period set aside for spiritual preparation, and the practices that define this season are deeply rooted in Scripture.

At its core, Lent is a forty-day period of preparation marked by repentance, fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. Each of these practices is not only biblical but repeatedly encouraged throughout Scripture. The purpose of setting aside this time is to prepare believers to reflect more deeply on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the central events of the Christian faith. Focusing on the absence of a label while ignoring the presence of these biblical practices misses the point entirely.

The foundation of Lent begins with the forty days Jesus Christ spent fasting and praying in the wilderness. This period of self-denial and obedience occurred immediately before the public ministry of Jesus. Scripture presents this not as symbolism, but as a real and deliberate act of preparation. Lent follows this same biblical pattern by inviting believers to step away from distractions and refocus their lives on God.

Fasting is only one part of the picture. Prayer is equally central. Throughout Scripture, prayer accompanies repentance and renewal. Jesus Himself frequently withdrew for prayer, especially at pivotal moments. Almsgiving, often overlooked by critics of Lent, is also explicitly biblical. Scripture consistently links care for the poor with genuine repentance and devotion to God. Giving to those in need is presented not as optional charity but as a visible expression of faith. When Lent includes almsgiving, it reflects this biblical connection between worship and love of neighbor.

Some object that setting aside a season like Lent imposes human tradition over Scripture. Yet the Bible repeatedly shows God’s people marking specific times for repentance, fasting, and return to God. What Scripture condemns is hypocrisy, not disciplined devotion. Jesus warned against public displays meant to impress others, but He never rejected fasting, prayer, or giving to the poor. In fact, He assumed His followers would practice all three, instructing them to do so with sincerity and humility.

Lent does not claim to earn salvation or replace grace. It exists to prepare hearts to more fully contemplate the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When understood properly, Lent directs attention toward the Gospel, not away from it.

In the end, Lent is biblical not because of a word, but because of its purpose. A season devoted to repentance, fasting, prayer, almsgiving, and preparation for Easter aligns completely with Scripture. To dismiss Lent by searching for a missing term while ignoring its biblical foundation is to misunderstand both the Bible and the intent of Christian faith.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What Is Holy Communion According to the Bible?

Image
Holy Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper or the Eucharist, is a sacred practice in Christianity that commemorates the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. According to the Bible, it is an act of worship and remembrance, symbolizing the body and blood of Christ given for the forgiveness of sins. Holy Communion is more than a ritual; it is a profound spiritual experience that strengthens the believer’s relationship with God and fellow Christians. Holy Communion, according to the Bible, is a sacred act of worship that commemorates Jesus’ sacrifice and celebrates His covenant with humanity. Through the bread and the cup, believers remember His body and blood, given for the forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life. Image Credit: Giuseppe Ramos S via Canva.com Holy Communion is rooted in Jesus’ instructions to His disciples during the Last Supper, which took place on the night before His crucifixion. By understanding the biblical meaning and significance of Holy Communion, Christians...
Read more

Why Did Jesus Call His Mother "Woman"? Unveiling the Mystery and Meaning

Jesus called his mother "woman" on two distinct occasions. The first instance occurred during the wedding at Cana (John 2:4), and the second was at the crucifixion (John 19:26). For centuries, believers have been intrigued by the manner in which Jesus addressed his mother, Mary, by calling her "woman".  In each instance, the term "woman" underscores the broader spiritual themes surrounding Mary's role and relationship with her son. To appreciate the full significance behind Jesus calling his mother "woman", we need to consider its cultural, theological, and symbolic implications. Let us explore the reasons behind Jesus' choice of words and uncover the rich meaning it holds for the Christian faith. Cultural context of ‘woman’ in ancient Israel The first key to understanding Jesus' use of the term "woman" is to consider the cultural context in which he lived. In ancient Israel, the word "woman" was not considered di...
Read more

What is Reality According to the Bible?

Image
Reality, according to the Bible, is more than what can be seen, touched, or experienced with the senses. The Bible reveals that reality includes both the visible, physical world and an unseen, spiritual dimension. While human understanding is often limited to what can be observed, the Bible teaches that true reality is defined by God’s eternal truth, His Word, and His divine purposes. Reality is shaped by God’s creation, His presence, and His plan for humanity. The concept of reality in the Bible is deeply rooted in God’s nature as Creator and Sustainer of all things. Scripture presents reality as a combination of the material world and the spiritual world. To fully grasp reality, people must see beyond the physical and recognize the spiritual truths revealed by God. This understanding allows believers to live with faith, purpose, and hope in a world that often seems uncertain. Reality, according to the Bible, is far greater than what can be seen or touched. It includes both the physic...
Read more