Mark 2:18,19 - Why don't you fast?

2:18

The area of controversy relates to fasting. In all these matters the key point is that something new is happening, and that it requires new thinking. As Rom 12:2 says, we need to be transformed by the renewal of our minds. John’s disciples fasted, and the Pharisees fasted regularly, on Mondays and Thursdays. “Some people” asked why Jesus’ disciples did not fast. “Some people” is a rather general term, and implies that this time it is not the religious leaders who are asking.

2:19

Jesus does not answer directly, but uses a series of analogies in His response. The first one draws attention to Himself, by likening Himself to the bridegroom. Isaiah 62:5 refers to God as the bridegroom. It is totally out of place for the guests to fast when the bridegroom is with them, indeed it would be rude to do so.