Difficult Texts: Matthew 7.1–6

Abstract

Every commentator struggles with the interpretation of Matthew 7.6, because the tantalizing image of ‘casting pearls before swine’ is so enigmatic. The interpretation offered here deals with the puzzle of the meaning of the proverb by reading it alongside verses 1–5. The argument suggests that the command not to judge (v. 1) is to be understood in a strong or hard sense (i.e. do not condemn) that does not undermine the use of judicious judgement in a weaker or softer sense (i.e. careful discernment and judgement). The need for careful judgement is relevant to relationships in the Christian community and the need, positively, to treat brothers and sisters as holy, as precious pearls who should never be thrown to the dogs or pushed into the mud through damning criticism, and not to be tempted, negatively, to waste their pearls of wisdom in rebuking their brothers and sisters, because they may end up trampled underfoot (v. 6). In this way, the danger of judgementalism is highlighted, but not at the expense of discernment and careful judgement.