Is it ever permissible to stop preaching to people about the love of God, the sacrifice of Jesus, the church of Christ, the plan of salvation or the glory of heaven? Some of us would answer, “Absolutely not! We must never stop preaching the gospel to anyone and everyone!” It is true that our Lord has given us the task and responsibility to take the good news of Jesus Christ to every person on the face of the earth. However, did you know that God gives you permission to stop preaching to some people? That might sound contradictory or counter-intuitive, but in the wisdom of God it is prudent and necessary.
Consider the instructions of Jesus in this regard. “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces” (Matt. 7:6). There are persons whom Jesus described as “dogs” and “hogs” —vile, incorrigible creatures who want nothing to do with God, His ways or His Word. What did Jesus say was our responsibility toward such persons? Do not give that which is holy and valuable to them! Would this not include the message of salvation? Is there anything more holy and valuable?
Perhaps we can use Jesus’ words in Mark 6:11 as His own commentary on Matthew 7:6. Who are these “dogs” and “hogs”? “And whoever will not receive you nor hear [your words], when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them” (cf. Matt. 10:14).
In the book of Acts, we see an example of Paul following these instructions. He shook the dust off his feet when persecuted in Antioch of Pisidia (13:51) and then again toward the Jews in Corinth. Notice four things Paul did (in Acts 18:6) in fulfilling the instructions to stop preaching to certain people.
He distanced himself from the antagonists. “He shook his garments.” The Lord did not require him to continue preaching to blasphemers.
He disclosed the antagonist’s personal responsibility. “Your blood be upon your own heads.” He did not discontinue preaching without telling them, one more time, of the consequences of their sinful ways.
He disavowed any responsibility for their guilt. “I am clean.” He had done his part, fulfilled his charge, and the Lord gave him permission to move on.
He directed his efforts toward more fertile soil. “From now on I will go to the Gentiles.” He did not stop preaching altogether. He just took the message of salvation to others, searching for those who had more receptive hearts.
Don’t ever stop preaching! Just keep soil searching!