How does Matthew 7:6 connect with Proverbs 9:8 about correcting mockers? Setting the Verses Side by Side Matthew 7:6 – “Do not give dogs what is holy; do not cast your pearls before swine. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.” Proverbs 9:8 – “Do not rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.” Shared Principle: Discernment in Correction • Both verses teach that truth is precious (“holy,” “pearls”) and must be stewarded wisely. • Neither passage denies the duty to correct; they limit correction to those ready to receive it. • The outcome of ignoring this counsel is the same: hostility, hatred, or harm from the unreceptive. Who Are the “Dogs,” “Swine,” and “Mockers”? • “Dogs” and “swine” in first-century Palestine were unclean, aggressive scavengers—an image for people who openly despise holy things (cf. Philippians 3:2; 2 Peter 2:22). • “Mockers” (or “scoffers”) in Proverbs reject wisdom, ridicule righteousness, and refuse reproof (cf. Proverbs 1:22; 13:1). • Jesus and Solomon describe the same heart posture: hardened, contemptuous, and bent on attacking truth-bearers. Why Withholding Correction Can Be Loving • Protects the sacred: Truth is not to be profaned by those who will only abuse it. • Protects the messenger: Avoids needless conflict and personal harm (Matthew 10:14; Acts 13:45-46). • Respects human agency: God allows people to harden their hearts (Romans 1:24-28); we cooperate with His wisdom by not forcing pearls on swine. When Correction Is Appropriate • After discerning openness (Proverbs 15:31; Acts 17:11). • When a person shows humility and teachability (James 1:19-21). • Following Jesus’ model: He remained silent before Herod’s mocking (Luke 23:8-9) but engaged Nicodemus and the woman at the well, who showed interest (John 3; 4). Practical Application Today • Gauge receptivity before speaking—listen first. • Share the gospel widely, yet withdraw when it is met with settled ridicule. • Focus mentoring energy on the responsive; invest prayerfully in the resistant, awaiting signs of softening. • Remember Titus 3:10—“Reject a divisive man after a first and second warning.” Balance patience with boundaries. Summary Matthew 7:6 and Proverbs 9:8 form a united call to wise stewardship of truth. Correct and teach those who value wisdom; refrain from pressing sacred truths on persistent mockers, lest the message be trampled and the messenger harmed. |
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