What does "do not give dogs what is holy" mean for evangelism? Setting the Scene “Do not give dogs what is holy; do not cast your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces” (Matthew 7:6). Who Are the “Dogs” and “Pigs”? • In first-century Judaism, “dogs” were not household pets but scavengers—unclean, aggressive, unpredictable. • “Pigs” were the epitome of ceremonial uncleanness (Leviticus 11:7). • Jesus is not insulting unbelievers in general; He is describing people who display willful, hostile contempt for God’s truth. What Is “Holy” and What Are “Pearls”? • “Holy” refers to anything set apart for God—ultimately the gospel itself. • “Pearls” symbolize priceless kingdom truths (Matthew 13:45-46). • These are treasures we gladly share, yet Scripture warns against handing them over to those intent on mocking or destroying them. Principles for Evangelism Drawn from the Verse 1. Discern the Soil (Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23) – Like a farmer, identify whether a heart is receptive or hardened. 2. Start Open-Handed, Not Tight-Fisted – Proclaim Christ freely (Acts 1:8), expecting mixed responses. 3. Recognize Persistent Contempt – When ridicule turns vicious and truth is trampled, you are seeing “dogs” and “pigs” behavior. 4. Know When to Step Back – Jesus instructed the Twelve to shake the dust off their feet when a town rejected them (Matthew 10:14). – Paul left Antioch Pisidia after blasphemy erupted, focusing on others ready to listen (Acts 13:44-51). 5. Guard the Message and the Messenger – Protect the gospel from needless profanation. – Safeguard your own spiritual and emotional well-being; hostility can “tear you to pieces.” Balancing Boldness and Wisdom • Boldness: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). • Wisdom: “Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults” (Proverbs 9:7-8). • The Spirit supplies both courage and discernment (James 1:5). Practical Applications • When engagement becomes a cycle of mockery, redirect your efforts without guilt. • Keep praying for hardened hearts; stepping back is not abandoning—God can soften anyone (Acts 9). • Invest deeply in seekers, the hurting, and the humble; they recognize the value of the “pearls.” Key Takeaways • The gospel is holy and priceless; handle it with reverence. • Evangelism requires spiritual discernment, not reckless exposure. • Faithfulness includes both proclaiming truth and knowing when to move on. |
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