Pearls Before Swine

Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces. “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the Law and the Prophets.”

“Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:6, 12-14)

Being open-minded leads to life.  Being narrow-minded leads to destruction.  This runs counter to Jesus’ remarks about the road and gate.  

But, there is a real difference.  The “crowd” can be found on broad roads and can easily enter wide gates.  The “crowd” can be easily manipulated and follow false teachers.  

Thoughtful, well-informed people refuse to be part of the “crowd."  They make their own decisions and follow their own narrow roads requiring vigilance and good decision-making based on facts and not on fear.  

Revelations at the January 6 Congressional public hearings continue to provide good examples of crowds promoting trampling, tearing, and destruction. We must never throw pearls before swine or give what is holy to dogs.

Deacon David Pierce