Pearls Before Swine — SUCCESSFULSAVIOR.ORG

Question

“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.” (Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭6‬)

What is your interpretation of this commandment?

Answer

I interpret it to mean that there are times when it is best to remain silent rather than share spiritual truths with those who are evidently unreceptive and hostile. The gospel is sheep food intended for those who have spiritual hunger. It is not to be force fed to swine or set before wolves who have no natural appetite for spiritual sustenance. Doing so exposes a disciple to an unnecessary risk of attack. We need discernment regarding when to share spiritual truth. We don’t have perfect spiritual perception, but when one considers the metaphor, it indicates that you’ll know when a swine is standing before you and won’t likely be wondering, “Is that a hostile pig or a wounded sheep?” Paul alludes to this situation saying, “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” (II Thessalonians 3:1-2) The apostle recognized that it is utterly pointless to set spritiual truth before men who have no faith. Indeed, the Lord Jesus Christ taught, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3).

- Elder Daniel Samons