Tactics and Tools

“Pearls before Swine”

Author Greg Koukl Published on 03/22/2013

How do you know when to “fold your hand” and drop out of an unproductive discussion?

Jesus warns, “Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine.” (Matt. 7:6) How do we know when we’ve crossed the line when we share our faith? When do we have an obligation to speak, and when should we keep our pearls to ourselves?

The answer is easy when we consider the rest of the verse: “Do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” We should be generous with the truth unless we encounter someone who shows utter contempt for the precious gift he is being offered. He will simply trample it in the mud and then viciously turn on you. When you sense this happening, walk away. Don’t waste your time with people like this. There’s plenty of ripe fruit waiting to be harvested.