Matthew 7:6–Hogs and Dogs

“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces,” commanded Jesus in His famous Mountain Message.

This is one of the more difficult sayings of the Savior. What did He mean? To whom was He referring? And how can we apply it?

Defining the Terms

First of all, it’s important to understand He was not speaking of a dog like we do today. It was not a cute, domesticated house pet. A dog was a wild, scavenger animal. Dogs would roam the streets looking for any bit of food they could find. They were unclean animals. Fierce. And would often attack.

Secondly, to the Jews, pigs were an unclean animal (Lev. 11:7). They were viewed with contempt and considered filthy. Eating their meat was an abomination under the Old Law (Deut. 14:8). Demons were banished to a herd of pigs (Matt. 8:30-32).

Thirdly, that which is holy must refer to spiritual matters and especially the Word of God.

Jesus’ Point

This passage calls for Christ-followers to be perceptive, exercise judgment, and use discretion in our evangelistic efforts. Not everyone is a prospect. While the Gospel is for all, there are those who dismiss it. Discredit it. And disparage it.

William Barclay correctly observed, “It is often impossible to talk to some people about Jesus Christ. Their insensitiveness, their moral blindness, their intellectual pride, their cynical mockery, the tarnishing film, make them impervious to words about Christ.”

Warren Wiersbe commented on the verse this way, “Christians must exercise discernment; for not everyone is a sheep. Some people are dogs or hogs, and some are wolves in sheep’s clothing! We are the Lord’s sheep, but this does not mean we should let people pull the wool over our eyes!”

“Christ’s disciples must not endlessly continue to bring the gospel message to those who scorn it. To be sure, patience must be exercised but there is a limit. A moment arrives when constant resistance to the gracious invitation must be punished by the departure of the messengers of good tidings,” wrote William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker.

Judging?

Deciding who to share the gospel with, when it’s time to refrain, and how long we should try, calls for judgment. This is ironic, because in the previous verses, Jesus warns “Judge not that you be not judged.” However, this has been misapplied. In Matthew 7:1-5 Jesus is condemning hypocritical and hypercritical judgment of others, as we have pointed out in past posts.

In verse six, Jesus’ command requires the employment of wisdom, judgment, and prudence in the exercise of our spiritual duties, especially as it relates to sharing the gospel.

Application

While this may sound hard and even a bit harsh, consider Jesus’ command to His disciples in Matthew 10:14. “If any household or town refuses to welcome you or listen to your message, shake its dust from your feet as you leave.”

This is precisely what Paul did in his missionary work when people persecuted him, opposed his preaching, and blasphemed the Word” (Ax. 13:51; 18:6).

Jesus is our example in evangelistic outreach. He talked to Jewish Ruler Nicodemus about the new birth. He spent time with the immoral, Samaritan woman at the well discussing living water and worship. He reached out to the poor, disenfranchised, hurting who came to him. His love and compassion knew no bounds. But he had little time for the insincere religious leaders who tried to trap Him. In fact, He refused to talk to Herod, whose interest in Jesus was superficial and secular, not spiritual (Lk. 23:9).

This passage and these examples remind us that while there is a time to speak, there is also a time to remain silent (Eccl. 3:7). A time to move on. To seek greener pastures and more fruitful fields in our outreach efforts.

I have known folks through the years who have been trying to convert the same neighbor, friend, relative, or co-worker for 20 years. They are not interested. They could care less about the gospel, the church, or the salvation of their soul. Yet, I’ve heard some say, “We should never give up.” Well, maybe. But this text says not to extend the pearl of great price to those who deny, reject and ridicule its value.

A pearl is priceless. But not to a pig. That which is holy holds sacred value. But not to a dog. Let’s not allow the Word of God to be blasphemed.

Jesus’ admonition to the disciples is also a fitting exhortation to us today. “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matt. 10:16).

Ken Weliever, The Preacherman