Matthew 7:6- “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
Extended Explanation
This verse is one of Jesus’ more puzzling statements in the Sermon on the Mount, yet it carries a powerful message about discernment. The “sacred” and “pearls” represent valuable, holy truths—God’s Word, the gospel, and spiritual wisdom. The “dogs” and “pigs” symbolize people who are hostile, unreceptive, or disrespectful toward these sacred things. Jesus is teaching His followers to wisely discern when and how to share the gospel or offer spiritual insight. While we are called to love all people and share God’s truth, this verse reminds us to do so with wisdom and to recognize when someone is resistant or even antagonistic.
Historical Context
In Jesus’ time, dogs were not often domesticated pets as they are today; they were scavengers, viewed as unclean and dangerous. Pigs held a similar reputation, especially for Jews, who considered them unclean animals under the Mosaic Law. Referring to people as “dogs” or “pigs” would have conveyed the idea of those who show contempt for what is holy. This teaching likely challenged the disciples to balance their zeal for spreading God’s truth with the practical wisdom of recognizing when an audience is not ready or willing to receive it.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of discernment in sharing God’s truth. While God’s love and salvation are for everyone, not everyone will respond positively. Jesus isn’t advocating for exclusivity but for wisdom in stewardship. Wasting precious truths on those who are openly hostile or mocking can lead to harm and unnecessary conflict. It also shows that the gospel is sacred—it is not to be treated casually but to be shared with reverence and care. God calls us to partner with Him in spreading His Word wisely and prayerfully.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses metaphor and parallelism to convey its message. The images of “dogs” and “pigs” paired with “what is sacred” and “pearls” create a sharp contrast, emphasizing the great value of God’s truth. The warning about trampling and tearing reflects the potential consequences of sharing sacred things with those who do not value or respect them. This verse is part of a larger section on judgment and discernment, tying it to the themes of wisdom, humility, and understanding that run throughout the Sermon on the Mount.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 9:7-8: “Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; rebuke the wise and they will love you.”
- Acts 13:45-46: Paul and Barnabas turned to the Gentiles after the Jews in Pisidian Antioch rejected the gospel.
- Titus 3:10-11: “Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them.”
- Matthew 10:14: “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder to share the gospel with wisdom and discernment. It doesn’t mean we should withhold the good news, but it calls us to recognize when someone is unreceptive or openly hostile. In such cases, we can pray for them and trust God to work in their hearts while focusing on those who are open to hearing the truth. This verse also encourages Christians to value the gospel highly, treating it with reverence and care.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His patience and His desire for all people to know Him. However, His love doesn’t force anyone to accept the truth. This verse reflects God’s respect for human free will, as well as His guidance to protect His people from unnecessary harm or discouragement. It reminds us that God’s Word is precious, and sharing it wisely is an act of love—both for others and for God.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus modeled this teaching in His ministry. While He preached to large crowds and welcomed sinners, He also showed discernment in His interactions. For example, He chose to explain the deeper truths of His parables only to His disciples (Mark 4:10-12). When people rejected Him, such as in His hometown of Nazareth, He moved on to other towns (Mark 6:1-6). Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross was made available to all, but He entrusted the spread of His message to those who were ready to receive and carry it forward.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you discern when someone is ready to hear and receive the gospel?
- Have there been times when sharing God’s truth led to conflict or rejection? How did you respond?
- How can you balance being bold in your faith with practicing wisdom and discernment?
- In what ways can prayer help you recognize the right opportunities to share the gospel?
- How does valuing God’s Word as sacred change the way you approach sharing it with others?
This verse challenges us to value God’s truth and to share it with care and discernment, trusting Him to guide us in reaching those who are ready to receive His love and grace.