Why Evangelicals Can Benefit by Practicing Lent

By Dr. Tim Orr

Lent is a season of fasting, prayer, and repentance observed by many Christian traditions, particularly Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and some mainline Protestant denominations; some Evangelicals also practice it. The practice spans 40 days (excluding Sundays) to Easter, commemorating Christ’s 40 days of fasting in the wilderness. But should evangelicals participate in Lent? I think so, but my answer is based on how one approaches the practice in light of Scripture and evangelical theology.

A Brief History of Lent

The practice of Lent dates back to the early church, with references as early as the fourth century. It became a formalized period of fasting and spiritual preparation for Easter. Over time, various traditions developed, including abstaining from certain foods, increased prayer, and acts of charity. While many Protestant reformers rejected Lent due to its association with Catholic sacramentalism, some traditions, like Anglicanism and Lutheranism, retained it in modified forms (Schaff, 1890).

Concerns About Lent

Many evangelicals are hesitant about Lent for several reasons. First, some fear it could lead to legalism—a belief that religious rituals, rather than faith in Christ, are necessary for righteousness. Evangelicals emphasize a personal, grace-centered faith rather than one based on religious works. If Lent becomes an obligation rather than a personal act of devotion, it can quickly lose its meaning (Packer, 2001).

Second, there is the concern that Lent has unbiblical origins. While fasting and repentance are clearly biblical (Matthew 6:16-18, Joel 2:12), Lent as an institutionalized season is not explicitly mandated in Scripture. Some evangelicals question whether adopting it is necessary.

Lastly, some worry about its Catholic and liturgical associations. Given that Lent is historically tied to Catholicism, certain evangelicals see it as unnecessary or even as a gateway to sacramentalism, which undermines the Protestant emphasis on the priesthood of all believers (Carson, 2015).

Why Evangelicals Can Benefit from Lent

While some concerns are valid, there are also strong reasons why evangelicals might consider incorporating Lent into their spiritual lives. For one, fasting and repentance have strong biblical precedents. Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:2), and Scripture often links fasting with spiritual renewal (Acts 13:2, Joel 2:12-13). Observing Lent can be a meaningful way to follow this biblical example.

Additionally, Lent can deepen spiritual discipline. Setting aside time to refocus on Christ can be transformative in a culture of distraction and instant gratification. Imagine a young woman who gives up social media for Lent. At first, she struggles with the silence, but she realizes how much more present she is in prayer and Bible study over time. Rather than seeing Lent as restrictive, she experiences it as freeing (Foster, 1978).

Moreover, Lent serves as a time of preparation for Easter. Just as Advent prepares Christians for Christmas, Lent prepares believers for the joy of Easter. Evangelicals emphasize the Resurrection, and Lent can heighten appreciation for Christ’s victory over sin and death.

The Benefits of Observing Lent

Practicing Lent can have several benefits for evangelicals, contributing to a deeper and more meaningful faith journey. First, it cultivates humility. Fasting and self-denial remind believers of their dependence on God, encouraging a posture of humility and reliance on His grace rather than self-sufficiency.

Second, it strengthens spiritual focus. Lent offers an opportunity to slow down, reflect on Christ’s sacrifice, and realign priorities toward God’s kingdom in an age of constant busyness. A pastor once shared how his Lenten fast from caffeine led to unexpected moments of prayer whenever he craved coffee. The small act of denial triggered spiritual reflection (Willard, 1998).

Third, Lent can encourage accountability. Committing to spiritual disciplines during Lent, whether fasting, prayer, or Scripture reading, can provide accountability within a church community and foster deeper relationships. Many churches have Lenten small groups or prayer partners, creating a sense of shared devotion (Bonhoeffer, 1954).

Fourth, it promotes acts of service. Many evangelicals use Lent to focus on serving others, mirroring Christ’s humility and compassion for the needy. A family who decided to give up eating out for Lent used the money they saved to donate meals to a homeless shelter. Their children, initially reluctant, became excited about serving others (Nouwen, 1992).

Lastly, Lent enhances worship and gratitude. The practice of self-denial and reflection often leads to a greater appreciation for the work of Christ and a more profound experience of Easter’s celebration. The joy of Easter morning feels even greater when one has walked through a season of repentance and renewal (Wright, 2011).

A Gospel-Centered Approach to Lent

For evangelicals, the key to practicing Lent is to do so in a way that aligns with gospel freedom rather than legalism. Paul warns against external religiosity without heart transformation (Colossians 2:16-23). Lent should never become a means of earning favor with God but rather a response to His grace.

A Christ-centered Lent may include:

• Fasting with Purpose – Whether giving up a specific food, technology, or habit, the goal should be drawing closer to God, not merely self-denial.
• Intentional Prayer and Bible Study – Focusing on passages about Christ’s passion, suffering, and resurrection can deepen faith.
• Service and Generosity – Using Lent to serve others mirrors Jesus’ humility and sacrifice.

Conclusion: Freedom in Christ

Should evangelicals practice Lent? The Bible does not require it, but neither does it forbid it. Evangelicals who find Lent beneficial can approach it as a voluntary, grace-filled practice that draws them closer to Christ. Those who choose not to observe Lent should not judge those who do (Romans 14:5-6). Ultimately, whether one participates in Lent or not, the focus should always be on Christ’s finished work and the joy of the Resurrection.

References

Bonhoeffer, D. (1954). Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community. HarperOne.

Carson, D. A. (2015). Worship by the Book. Zondervan.

Foster, R. J. (1978). Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth. Harper & Row.

Nouwen, H. J. M. (1992). The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming. Doubleday.

Packer, J. I. (2001). Knowing God. InterVarsity Press.

Schaff, P. (1890). History of the Christian Church, Volume III: Nicene and Post-Nicene Christianity. Charles Scribner's Sons.

Willard, D. (1998). The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives. HarperOne.

Wright, N. T. (2011). Simply Jesus: A New Vision of Who He Was, What He Did, and Why He Matters. HarperOne.

Dr. Tim Orr works full-time at Crescent Project as the assistant director of the internship program and area coordinator and is very active in UK outreach. He is a scholar of Islam, Evangelical minister, conference speaker, and interfaith consultant with over 30 years of experience in cross-cultural ministry. He holds six degrees, including a master’s in Islamic studies from the Islamic College in London. He is a Congregations and Polarization Project research associate at the Center for the Study of Religion and American Culture at Indiana University Indianapolis. His research focuses on American Evangelicalism, Islamic antisemitism, and Islamic feminism. He has spoken at prestigious universities and mosques, including Oxford University, Imperial College London, and the University of Tehran. He has published widely, including articles in Islamic peer-reviewed journals, and has written four books.