In the Sermon on the Mount, a foundational Christian teaching, Jesus imparts valuable spiritual wisdom. One of the most well-known verses from this sermon is Matthew 7:6, often referred to as the “pearl of wisdom.” This verse encourages us to exercise discernment in our interactions with others. By exploring this verse and drawing insights from other scriptures, we can better understand its message.
“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces” (Matthew 7:6 NKJV).
When we first encounter this particular verse, comprehending it may appear puzzling and challenging. The use of vivid imagery involving dogs and swine by Jesus raises questions and begs for an explanation. We must delve deeper into its context and connect with other relevant scriptures to unlock and grasp its true meaning.
In Matthew 7:6, Jesus teaches his followers the importance of judging rightly and avoiding hypocrisy. He advises them to refrain from unfairly judging others and to follow the principles of asking, seeking, and knocking in prayer, as well as the Golden Rule. In this context, the verse focuses on the need for discernment when sharing sacred knowledge or truths with others.
“Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you” (Proverbs 9:7–8 ESV).
The proverb emphasizes that not everyone is open to receiving wisdom and accepting correction. Similarly, as Jesus warns us not to give what is holy to dogs and pearls to swine, Proverbs suggests that we should be wise enough to know when and how to offer guidance and correction.
“And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet” (Matthew 10:14 NKJV).
In this verse, Jesus instructs his disciples that if people reject their message, they should move on. It echoes the sentiment in Matthew 7:6 by emphasizing the importance of recognizing when to withdraw from unproductive interactions.
“But a natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14 NAS20).
This verse from 1 Corinthians explains that spiritual discernment is necessary to comprehend God’s wisdom. Those without the Spirit might find spiritual truths incomprehensible, just as swine cannot appreciate pearls.
In conclusion, Matthew 7:6 serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of discerning in our interactions with others, particularly when discussing faith and spirituality. By linking it with other biblical passages such as Proverbs 9:7-8, Matthew 10:14, and 1 Corinthians 2:14, we gain a deeper comprehension of Jesus’ teachings. It encourages us to be wise and discerning in sharing our spiritual insights with those who are receptive to them. It also recognizes when it’s best to disengage from unproductive conversations. By doing so, we honor the pearls of wisdom God has bestowed upon us and safeguard them from being trampled underfoot.