Matthew 7:6
Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.
For the past five verses, Jesus has addressed the issue of judging others. Yet, here in verse six, He calls us to judge whether someone is a “dog” or a “swine.” This isn't a contradiction but a balance to His earlier words. It would be wise for more Christians to memorize all of Jesus' teachings on judging, for in this time, many know the first verse well: “Judge not, that ye be not judged.” Even unbelievers quote it! But while this is true, we often overlook the balance Jesus provides in this command. As a result, some believers abandon discernment entirely, fearful of "judging others." This leads to Christians supporting the wicked in their wickedness under the banner of God’s love and welcoming those with no heart for God into sacred spaces, sometimes bringing harm to the church of God.
As we strive to judge ourselves, let us remember these words of Christ. He calls us to discern whether a person truly desires the help we are offering. Don’t throw discernment to the wind. If someone repeatedly proves to be like a dog returning to its vomit or a swine wallowing in the mire, then let them be. Solomon echoed this wisdom, saying, “Speak not in the ears of a fool: for he will despise the wisdom of thy words” (Proverbs 23:9) and, “He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee” (Proverbs 9:7-8).
It’s clear that the pearls and holy things in this verse symbolize the wise reproof given by a brother who has removed the mote from his own eye (v.5), aligning with Solomon’s wisdom: “As an earring of gold, and an ornament of fine gold, so is a wise reprover upon an obedient ear” (Proverbs 25:12). Later, in the New Testament, we are reminded, “A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself” (Titus 3:10-11).
My hope this morning is to bring balance to this issue of judgment. Christ Himself calls us to discern who may be a dog or a swine—not as a hasty assumption but through careful judgment. Not only does He call us to discern but also warns of the harm that may come if we persist in offering help to those who scorn it. Dear Christian, your reproof, your sharing of the gospel, may come from a pure heart. If so, it is as precious as pearls. Don't judge others, but discern well. If someone shows a pattern of returning to sinful ways, turn them over to God and seek another place for your pearls.
Amen