Why is it important to discern who to share the gospel with?
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Discerning the audience for the gospel helps prevent casting pearls before swine, ensuring the message is received by those who genuinely need it.
The importance of discernment in sharing the gospel lies in the biblical command found in Matthew 7:6. The act of casting pearls before swine symbolizes the futility of sharing the sacred message with those who mock or despise it. By understanding who the 'dogs' and 'swine' are—those who reject the gospel—Christians can better focus their evangelistic efforts on those who are spiritually receptive.
This practice aligns with the model of Jesus, who sought out the broken and humble. As elaborated in Proverbs 9:7-9, wisdom calls for discernment in instruction. It is a wasted effort to impose truth upon those unwilling to receive it, which could, in turn, lead to hostility against the messenger. Thus, prioritizing our outreach to the meek and those aware of their need for grace not only honors the gospel's worth but also fulfills Jesus' mission to bring hope to the lost.
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