Is Fasting Food Specific?

#STRask25mApril 13, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

This episode of #STRask explores three theological questions with depth and nuance. First, it examines whether fasting must be food-specific, concluding that while biblical fasting is traditionally tied to food and water as a means of expressing dependence on God, abstaining from distractions like social media can still be spiritually beneficial—even if not biblically mandated. The hosts emphasize that while food fasting carries unique symbolic weight, other forms of abstinence can serve as meaningful spiritual disciplines. Second, they discuss the distinction between general saving faith and the 'gift of faith' mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12, suggesting that while all believers have faith, some are supernaturally endowed with exceptional trust that enables extraordinary results. They cite Brother Andrew’s life as an example of this rare gift. Finally, they address the legitimacy of prophetic predictions about suffering or death, cautioning that while biblical prophets did foretell hardship, modern claims must be rigorously tested for accuracy and authority. The hosts warn against spiritual abuse and emphasize that only verifiable, God-ordained prophecy should be trusted. Overall, the episode balances theological precision with pastoral wisdom.

Key Takeaways
1

Biblical fasting is traditionally food and water-based, symbolizing dependence on God, though abstaining from distractions like social media can still be spiritually valuable.

2

The 'gift of faith' in 1 Corinthians 12 refers to a supernatural measure of trust that enables extraordinary results, distinct from general saving faith.

3

Prophetic claims must be evaluated by their accuracy and authority; false predictions disqualify the claimant, and no one should be followed in risky decisions based on alleged divine direction.

4

Spiritual disciplines like fasting and prayer should be rooted in humility and dependence, not performance or personal merit.

5

The Holy Spirit distributes gifts for the edification of the body, not personal glory, and believers should seek spiritual gifts with discernment.

Chapters
0:00
6 min

Is Fasting Food-Specific?

There may be a unique element to fasting food that is not available in fasting other things like media or social media, whatever.

Highlight
5:40
6 min

The Gift of Faith in 1 Corinthians 12

Some seem to get their prayers answered and their ability to believe God. You know, out on the table there is a copy of God's Smuggler by Brother Andrew, which I reread about a year or two ago. And it seemed like every single time that guy prayed a prayer, even if it was like flippant in passing one sentence, bang, there was the answer.

Highlight
12:00
8 min

Prophetic Gifts and the Danger of False Claims

If the prophetic word is regarding something you are supposed to do, then I'm very, very, very skeptical. A person who claims to be a prophet and is giving you directions from God, I think it's always fair to ask the question, why didn't God tell me instead of you?

Highlight
20:00
5 min

Spiritual Disciplines and Discernment

The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of discernment in spiritual practices. The hosts affirm the value of fasting, prayer, and spiritual gifts while cautioning against overconfidence, false prophecy, and the misuse of spiritual authority.

High-Impact Quotes
Some seem to get their prayers answered and their ability to believe God. You know, out on the table there is a copy of God's Smuggler by Brother Andrew, which I reread about a year or two ago. And it seemed like every single time that guy prayed a prayer, even if it was like flippant in passing one sentence, bang, there was the answer.
Greg Kokel11:17
Viral: 92.0
If the prophetic word is regarding something you are supposed to do, then I'm very, very, very skeptical. A person who claims to be a prophet and is giving you directions from God, I think it's always fair to ask the question, why didn't God tell me instead of you?
Greg Kokel21:27
Viral: 88.0
There may be a unique element to fasting food that is not available in fasting other things like media or social media, whatever.
Greg Kokel3:31
Viral: 85.0
Speakers

Hosts

Amy HallGreg Kokel
Topics Discussed
Biblical Fasting90%Prophetic Claims88%The Gift of Faith87%Modern Prophecy and Authority86%Spiritual Gifts85%Spiritual Discernment82%Faith and Trust in God80%Abstinence as Discipline75%
People & Brands

Greg Kokel

person

15xNeutral

1 Corinthians 12

book

6xPositive

Amy Hall

person

5xNeutral

Jesus

person

5xPositive

Brother Andrew

person

4xPositive

Ephesians 2

book

3xPositive

Paul

person

3xPositive

Keisha

person

2xNeutral

Acts

book

2xPositive

Deuteronomy 18

book

2xPositive

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