All That Jesus Taught (Bible Study – 26 of 80) - Zac Poonen
Summary
The speaker interprets Jesus' warning not to give what is holy to dogs or throw pearls before swine as a caution regarding who receives spiritual truths. He argues that this means not giving profound teachings, like the Sermon on the Mount, to those who are not spiritually receptive or born again. True understanding of God's grace and the need for repentance is reserved for those who recognize their fallen state before God.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Do not give that which is holy to dogsJesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount by teaching that we must be wise about what we speak and to whom we speak it.
The example of Jesus and the Syrophoenician womanJesus traveled a great distance to help a non-Jewish woman who humbly recognized her low position, showing that no one deserves anything from God apart from His grace.Matthew 15:21
People focused on earthly things are like animalsJust as dogs and swine only look down at the earth, people who live purely for material and physical appetites without God are no better than animals.
The distinction between animals and manAlthough man was made from the same dust as animals, God breathed into man to make him a living soul and an eternal being endowed with a conscience.
Speaking wisdom only to the maturePaul explained that he could only give milk to the Corinthians because they were spiritual babes, just as solid food cannot be fed to a newborn.
The appropriate message for the unconvertedUnbelievers cannot appreciate the Sermon on the Mount and instead need to hear about their sin, their guilt, and their need to repent before God.
The foundational truth of ChristianityThe unique foundation of the Christian faith is that Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead, which must be established before teaching people to follow Him as disciples.
The tongue of a discipleJesus practiced listening to the Father every morning so He could receive the proper word to sustain weary people.Isaiah 50:4
Jesus dealing with the woman caught in adulteryWhen faced with the Pharisees accusing the woman, Jesus waited on the Father for a clear word before responding with wisdom.
Desiring the gift of prophecyBelievers are told to covet prophecy so that meetings can produce words that convict unbelievers and address the exact needs of those present.1 Corinthians 14:1
