The Sermon on the Mount was meant to provide a comprehensive guide for living a life that aligns with God’s values and principles. Jesus would offer timeless wisdom and profound insights into human nature and the nature of God. We find the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew, chapters 5 through 7. One of the more interesting nuggets of wisdom comes in this verse found in the Gospel of Matthew:
(Matthew 7:6)1NIV New International Version Translations – “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.”
Jesus uses metaphorical language to convey that valuable and sacred things should not be wasted on those who will not appreciate or understand their worth. In this context, “dogs” and “pigs” represent people who are likely to reject or misuse what is holy or valuable. The “sacred” and “pearls” symbolize the teachings and wisdom that should be shared with receptive and respectful people. This metaphor can be applied to many other areas outside our Bible lessons. This can be used for various aspects of life, such as personal boundaries, intellectual property, and cultural heritage. It encourages discernment in our interactions and reminds us to protect what is essential to our faith.
We live in a world where information is abundant and easily accessible. Technology, like artificial intelligence, is placing secular wisdom at the fingertips of everyone and anyone. Jesus is teaching that it is essential to recognize that not everyone will appreciate or respect what is valuable to us. In Matthew 7:6 , we are encouraged to be mindful of our audience and to share our knowledge and resources with those who will value and benefit from what we share. Jesus is upfront about why this is important. We are called to protect what is sacred because His message is valuable. By safeguarding what is important to us, we ensure it is not misused or disrespected.
Jesus used the Sermon on the Mount to explain the nature of God’s Kingdom and how it differs from worldly kingdoms. He emphasized humility, mercy, and righteousness, essential for living in God’s Kingdom. Many in this world offer only disdain for those values. We find them in our businesses, governments, media, and neighborhoods. As Jesus stood on the mount, He would make some of the most rigorous ethical demands in the Bible, such as “blessed are the peacemakers” and “love your enemies.” These teachings encourage people to live in a way that reflects God’s love and justice. Jesus clarified that He did not come to abolish Moses’s Law but to fulfill it. His teachings in the Sermon on the Mount were meant to deepen and expand the original instructions of God’s Law, thus providing a more profound understanding of God’s will for each of us. Jesus called for a radical transformation in how people live their lives. He asked us to emphasize love, forgiveness, and generous care for others, encouraging people to choose God’s way of love, eventually renewing all creation.
It is difficult to understand why someone would dislike or mock a message of salvation. Nowadays, people ridicule holding criminals accountable or living within their means by not wasting money. Honesty is a word that fosters disdain. Who would you call the “dogs” and “pigs” today? Are they the antisemites on campus? What about those committing fraud and stealing your money? The Gospel convicts hearts, transforms minds, and saves souls. This can be particularly relevant in social media and online platforms, where opinions and judgments are often shared without consideration of their impact. Jesus warns you will have more meaningful and respectful exchanges by being thoughtful about what you share and with whom. The same holds for who you listen to.
The anger expressed in Matthew 7:6 was not the first for Jesus. In Matthew 21:12-13, Jesus enters the Temple in Jerusalem and finds it filled with money changers and merchants selling animals for sacrifice. Angered by the commercialization and exploitation of the sacred space, Jesus overturned their tables and drove them out with a whip. He declared that the Temple should be a house of prayer, not a den of thieves. This act was a powerful demonstration of Jesus’ commitment to spiritual purity and his rejection of greed and corruption. It underscored his belief that worship should be sincere and free from the influence of materialism. Sacred is sacred!
Matthew 7:6 encourages us to be discerning, protective, and wise in our interactions, ensuring that what is valuable and its sacred nature are respected and appreciated. Seeing the gospel in action is often more effective than simply telling someone about it because actions can demonstrate the principles and values of the gospel in a tangible and relatable way. When people witness acts of kindness, love, and compassion, they can see the gospel’s transformative power in real-life situations. This can be more impactful than words alone, as actions evoke emotions and create lasting impressions.
Today, with abundant and accessible information, people are often skeptical of verbal claims. However, when they see the gospel lived out through genuine acts of service and love, it can break down barriers and build trust. Actions speak louder than words, and living out the gospel can show its authenticity and relevance in a way that mere words cannot. Seeing the gospel in action can inspire others to follow suit. When people observe the positive impact of living according to gospel principles, they may be more inclined to adopt those values in their own lives. This can lead to a ripple effect, where the gospel’s influence spreads through communities and transforms lives.
Contemplations
- Why would Jesus express His anger so dramatically by overturning tables and driving out the money changers from the Temple? Why would He use such vivid language as “dogs” and “pigs?”
- Ideas to Explore: Consider the significance of the Temple as a sacred space and the impact of commercialization on its sanctity. Reflect on how Jesus’ actions were a statement against greed and corruption and how they emphasized the importance of maintaining spiritual purity.
- What lessons can we learn from Jesus’ actions in the Sermon on the Mount?
- Ideas to Explore: How does Jesus’ rejection of those who mock God remind us to prioritize spiritual values over material gain? How can Jesus’ example be applied in our lives?
- Do you feel that some people are not worth arguing with about your faith?
- Ideas to Explore: Salvation is a personal choice. Our responsibility is to share the Gospel and then live it. Some will choose Jesus, and some will not. You are called to share, not judge.
- 1NIV New International Version Translations