Week 27 - Matthew 7:6-12
"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 then turn and tear you to pieces."
Who are the pigs and dogs?
And why is Jesus calling us to judge so harshly right after he tells us not to judge at all?
Jesus isn't talking about animals. He's talking about people, which is quite disconcerting. Pigs and dogs aren't exactly the most flattering animals the Messiah could use to talk about people? Who is Jesus referring to?
Many interpreters assume Jesus is telling us not to preach the gospel to those who are unwilling to hear it. A Calvinist might agree with that interpretation. But as a church in the freewill tradition, it seems a bit hard to hear Jesus telling us to be careful about whom we share the good news with. (Just look at Matthew 28)
Some of the Church Fathers contended that Jesus is telling the church not give communion to unbelievers. But that doesn't exactly fit the context of Jesus' sermon either.
So, who are the pigs and dogs? And what is Jesus referring to when he talks about pearls and sacred things?
I'll leave you in suspense until Sunday. I've got a hunch and it's quite relevant during election season.
As you dwell in Matthew 7:6-12, here are a few questions to consider and comment on:
1) Who are the pigs and dogs?
2) What is Jesus referring to when he talks about pearls and sacred things?
3) How could verse 6 possibly make sense in the context of verses 1-12?
4) What are some ways that Christians (those committed to putting the kingdom on display) might seek to implement this passage in 2012?
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