Matthew 7:6…
There comes a time…
Jesus is illustrating the problem with treating holy things as common by using a reference to throwing meat sacrificed to God to animals. In His time, dogs and pigs were considered unclean and dangerous (Psalm 22:16, 59:14, 80:13). He is speaking of people who are the set in their sinful ways (Philippians 3:2), degenerating (2 Peter 2:22) and deviant (Revelation 22:15). Today, it would be akin to offering the Lord’s Supper to those who hate Him.
There is a difference between destructive criticism and careful discernment. Jesus was warning us about standing over someone as judge when we haven’t yet looked in the mirror (Matthew 7:1-5). Now He instructs us that even when we have looked in the mirror, we should be careful who we are dealing with, because some people are not believers, they remain profane, and to give them wisdom is to invite their wrath (Proverbs 9:7-8). Don’t be mouthy and think this makes you a martyr for ministry.
Some do not value the vision of God (Proverbs 11:22). They are wise in their own eyes (Proverbs 3:7, 12:15 / Isaiah 5:21), they despise doctrine and become incensed against instruction. If you try and give them something of value, they may become violent. Yes we are supposed to try and help people (Galatians 6:10), but we must be prudent. We are to present the gospel, but when people become abusive and blasphemous, it’s time to cease.
It is the same in the church. Admonishing, correcting, and exhorting a believer is the right thing to do (2 Timothy 4:2 / Hebrews 3:13), but sometimes people persist in their perversity, and we are to let them go (Titus 3:10-11). If they are hurting, hungry, and hearing what you have to say, by all means, continue. Yes we should plead with people, but there comes a time when we are not to waste our words on those who won’t listen.
4 comments:
Just wanted you to know how beneficial your daily devotionals are to my friend and me. They are just the right length and packed with practical, thoughtful spiritual application to start our day with.
Thanks and appreciation from both of us.
You're quite welcome, and thank you, too...you two...
This is definitely a tough one. None of us like to be unliked and tension is not a fun thing to experience. However, we must keep reminding ourselves that what's eternal is more important than this temporary life. God's approval is more important than man's. Renewing our mind is an ongoing process. Help us Lord.
Its hard to watch loved ones not believe and think they know it all. I have been told by some that they know all thr answers. My thought is that they don't even know the questions. I also realize I am the same if not for the Grace of God and his wounderful murcy.
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