This is a lesson that is hard learned for many Christians. When the world attacks us, our family, our beliefs... human nature is to strike back. Especially when pertaining to the bold and ludicrous behavior found so frequently on social media.
Arm chair warriors, impaired critics, drama focused indigents all thrive in creating chaos, unconcerned at all with who might be impacted, offended, or hurt in the process. The never once consider the power of their words in guiding other readers opinions, and privately hide behind the veil of darkness provided by the spirits that drive them. And Jesus knew the type, even then.
Jesus taught that truth is sacred, not disposable. In Matthew 7:6, He warns that some hearts are so hardened that they don’t seek understanding, they seek argument, mockery, or control. In those moments, wisdom is silence, not because truth is weak; it’s restraint because truth is holy. Discernment knows when to speak and when to step away. Let's take a look...
When Silence Is Obedience: Why Jesus Commands Discernment.
Many Christians assume that walking away from conversations that challenge the existence or deity of God is failing to fight for Him and stand strong for your beliefs. While that might occasionally be the case, for those described above, Scripture teaches the opposite.
In Matthew 7:6, Jesus gives a direct command: “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before swine…”
Jesus calls truth holy and precious. Sacred things are not meant to be handled casually or offered endlessly to those who despise them. This is not avoidance, it is stewardship.
Who Jesus Is Talking About.
Jesus is not referring to those who do not know, sinners seeking grace, or people with honest questions. Throughout the Gospels, He is patient with the broken and the humble.
The warning applies to mockers:
• Those who argue to dominate, not understand
• Those who ridicule truth rather than receive it
• Those who attack the messenger once truth is spoken
Scripture consistently affirms this distinction:
• Proverbs 9:7–8: correcting a scoffer invites abuse
• Proverbs 23:9 : fools despise wise words
• Titus 3:10: after warning, disengage from divisive people
Below is a great example of this. I was recently inquiring about a music festival being hosted this year at The Ark Encounter in Kentucky, when I spotted this dialogue. Mind you, while this may have been one of the finest biblical responses I have seen to this type situation, the acknowledgement wasn't warranted by Scripture.
Jesus Modeled Disengagement.
Jesus did not endlessly debate hardened hearts. Using discernment, He recognized resistance and acted accordingly. He refused to answer Herod (Luke 23:9). He withdrew from hostile crowds (John 10:39–40). He ended conversations when motives turned corrupt (John 6:66). Walking away was not avoidance, it wasn't fear. It was wisdom.
Why Continued Engagement Can Be Disobedience.
Jesus actually gives a pretty good reason for this: “…lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.”
When truth is mocked and the speaker becomes the target, continuing the exchange no longer honors God. Paul reinforces this:
• 2 Timothy 2:23: avoid foolish controversies
• Titus 3:10–11: disengage after clear warning
Some types of challenge and resistance is not intellectual, it is spiritual. And as a believer, unless you are being led by the Spirit to engage, then your job is to move on to the fields ripe for harvest.
Discernment Isn't Optional, it's the Command.
Christ never commanded believers to convince everyone. He commanded us to guard what is holy. Silence is not compromise. Walking away is not failure. Disengagement is obedience.
Many believers learn this only after being drained, attacked, or embittered, until they finally mature spiritually enough to admit, “I’ve learned this the hard way…”
But again, that realization is not failure- It is maturity.
The next time you encounter the absurdity of attacks against God or His Kingdom, take a deep breath and exercise restraint. Follow the guidance that Jesus provided and use your time and energy elsewhere, where there is legitimate possibilities of making a spiritual impact.
If every single Christian understood this and stopped responding to chaotic words of division, this earthly fire would eventually die without fuel.
~ Devin
Devin Osborne
