So let us be clear once and for all that Jesus is not suggesting that certain classes of people are to be viewed as pigs or dogs. Nor is he saying that we should not give good things and do good deeds to people who might reject or misuse them. In fact, his teaching is precisely the opposite. We are to be like the Father in the heavens who is "kind to the unthankful and to the evil" (Luke 6:35).
The problem with pearls for pigs is not that pigs are not worthy. Worthiness is not in question here at all, but helpfulness. Pigs cannot digest pearls, nor nourish themselves upon them. Likewise for a dog with a Bible or a crucifix. The dog cannot eat it. The reason these animals will finally 'turn and rend you', when you one day step up to them with another load of Bible or pearls, is that you at least are edible.
... The needy person will finally become angry and attack us. The point is not the waste of the pearl, but that the person given the pearl is not helped.
Mar 14, 2009
The Pig and the Pearl
Of all commentaries written on the Sermon on the Mount that I have read (and there are quite many), Dallas Willard's Divine Conspiracy I think most accurately explains Matthew 7:6 “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you":
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1 comment:
This post reminds me of words of wisdom that I recently re-encountered:
Never wrestle with a pig. You'll end up dirty and besides, the pig likes it.
;^)
On a serious note, thank you for your thoughts in this post, which teach us that God desires good things for all of His creation, even those of us who are unclean (like me).
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