Definition: But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the childrenâÂÂs bread, and to cast [it] to dogs.
Explanation: Okay, letâs break down this verse from Matthew 15:26. Itâs a really important one about treating others with kindness and respect. Hereâs what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling someone who has offered bread to children that it's not okay to give it away to people they shouldnât be giving it to â like dogs! Letâs unpack it piece by piece: âBut he answeredâŚâ : This sets up a conversation. Jesus isnât just talking; heâs responding to someone who has offered bread. ââŚand said, It is not meet to take the childrenâs bread, and to cast [it] to dogs.â This is the core of the verse. Let's break down those words: âIt is not meetâŚâ : This means it's not right or appropriate to do something. Itâs a judgment about whatâs morally correct. ââŚto take the childrenâs breadâŚâ : Jesus is pointing out that someone is giving bread to children â likely because they are hungry. ââŚand cast [it] to dogs.â : This is the shocking part! "Dogs" represent people who are deserving of less kindness or consideration. It's a metaphor for those who should be treated with respect and compassion, but arenât receiving it. So, what does this mean practically? Jesus is saying that we shouldnât be generous to people who are not worthy of generosity. We shouldnât give our time, resources, or even our kindness to someone who isn't deserving of it. Itâs about treating everyone with respect and recognizing their inherent worth. It highlights the importance of empathy â understanding and sharing in another person's feelings. Why is this important? This verse speaks to a fundamental principle of love and compassion. It reminds us that God values others as much as we value ourselves. Itâs about humilityârecognizing our own fallibility and not presuming to know what's best for everyone. In short, Jesus is teaching us to be generous with kindness and respect to all people. --- Would you like me to: Explain this verse in a different way? Give you an example of how this principle applies to everyday life?