Interpretation of Matthew 7 6, part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, is a verse that has sparked much discussion and interpretation. It states:
“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.” (NIV)
This verse, in the context of Jesus’ broader teachings, emphasizes the importance of discernment in how we share wisdom, knowledge, and the message of the Gospel.
Context of Matthew 7:6
Before we analyze the verse, it’s crucial to consider its position within the passage. Matthew 7 contains teachings on judgment, prayer, and how to live according to God’s will. The surrounding verses urge people to be cautious about making judgments (Matthew 7:1-5) and to ask, seek, and knock (Matthew 7:7-11), emphasizing a relationship with God and His willingness to give good gifts.
Thus, Matthew 7:6 stands as a warning, calling for careful discernment in how one interacts with others, especially when it comes to sharing spiritual truths.
“Do Not Give Dogs What Is Sacred”
In biblical times, dogs were often considered unclean animals, associated with scavengers and even with hostile people (see Philippians 3:2, Revelation 22:15). The term “dogs” in Matthew 7:6 likely refers to those who are hostile or irreverent toward holy things, particularly the message of the Gospel. In this context, “what is sacred” can be understood as the teachings of Jesus, the Word of God, or the truth of the Gospel.
Jesus is teaching His followers not to waste the precious truths and insights of the Kingdom of God on those who have no regard for it. Sharing sacred knowledge with people who mock or reject it will not only be unfruitful but might also bring unnecessary harm. The emphasis here is on wisdom in sharing the Gospel.
“Do Not Throw Your Pearls to Pigs”
The “pearls” are often interpreted as symbolic of the most valuable and holy teachings, or the precious truths of God’s Word. In ancient times, pearls were rare and expensive—often associated with something of great value. When Jesus says, “Do not throw your pearls to pigs,” He is warning against sharing the deep truths of God’s Kingdom with those who will not appreciate them or understand their worth.
Pigs, in the biblical context, were also considered unclean animals, symbolizing people who not only reject the Gospel but are hostile to it. Throwing pearls to pigs would be as futile as giving precious gems to creatures who care nothing about them.
“They May Trample Them Under Their Feet”
When pearls or sacred things are shared with those who are not receptive, the natural result is that they are disregarded and devalued. This phrase conveys the idea of rejection—things that are held in disdain and are treated with contempt. The imagery of “trampling” suggests an irreversible devaluation, where something precious is destroyed through disregard.
This is a vivid illustration of how God’s truth can be misused or completely wasted when it falls on the hearts of those who refuse to understand or respect it.
“And Turn and Tear You to Pieces”
Finally, the last part of the verse introduces the potential danger of sharing pearls with those who are hostile to them. If a person disregards the Gospel and mocks it, they might also become aggressive and even attack the messenger. In historical contexts, we see instances where Christians faced persecution and hostility for sharing their faith, and this warning could be seen as a way of preparing them for potential rejection and harm.
Practical Applications:
- Discernment in Evangelism: Jesus calls us to use wisdom in how we share the Gospel. While we are called to spread the Good News to all, we must discern when to speak and when to withhold, especially in situations where the message is likely to be rejected or ridiculed.
- Avoiding Waste of Resources: This passage can be interpreted beyond evangelism to include sharing wisdom, knowledge, and time. We should be wise in whom we invest our time and resources, recognizing that not everyone will appreciate or use them wisely.
- Persecution and Rejection: The warning in this verse is also a reminder of the reality of spiritual rejection. Christians must understand that not everyone will accept or appreciate the message of the Gospel. Jesus’ followers should expect rejection but remain faithful in their calling.
- The Importance of Relationship: Evangelism and sharing wisdom should be built on genuine relationships. It is through trust and respect that people are more likely to listen and receive the message. Trying to push the message on someone who is openly hostile or disinterested can be counterproductive.
Related Bible Verses:
- Matthew 7:1-5 – Jesus’ teachings on judging others. Context for the discernment emphasized in Matthew 7:6.
- Matthew 13:10-17 – Jesus explains why He speaks in parables, revealing truths only to those who seek them.
- Luke 10:10-16 – A similar teaching where Jesus tells His disciples to shake the dust off their feet when they are rejected in a town.
- Proverbs 9:7-9 – Offers wisdom on how to deal with those who reject wisdom and how to offer correction wisely.
Conclusion
The interpretation of Matthew 7 6 teaches us the importance of discernment in how we approach others with the sacred truths of God. Jesus calls His followers to be wise, to understand when to share His teachings, and to recognize that not everyone will appreciate the value of the Gospel. The verse warns against sharing pearls with pigs and sacred things with dogs, urging us to respect the sacredness of the message and the wisdom of how and when to deliver it.
References:
- The Holy Bible: New International Version (Matthew 7:6).
- D.A. Carson, The Gospel According to Matthew (Pillar New Testament Commentary, 1995).
- John MacArthur, Matthew 1-7: The MacArthur New Testament Commentary (Moody Publishers, 1985).