Matthew 9:37

Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.

Study Bible

Then He said to His disciples
This phrase sets the scene for a direct communication from Jesus to His closest followers, the disciples. The Greek word for "disciples" is "μαθηταί" (mathētai), which means learners or students. This indicates a relationship of teaching and learning, where Jesus, as the Rabbi, imparts wisdom and guidance. Historically, discipleship in the Jewish context involved a close, personal relationship with the teacher, emphasizing not just the transfer of knowledge but the modeling of a way of life. This phrase underscores the importance of Jesus' teachings and the intimate relationship He had with His disciples.

The harvest is plentiful
The term "harvest" in Greek is "θερισμός" (therismos), which refers to the act of reaping or gathering crops. In the agricultural society of ancient Israel, harvest time was a period of great activity and significance, symbolizing abundance and provision. Spiritually, Jesus uses this metaphor to describe the readiness and abundance of people who are prepared to receive the Gospel. The "plentiful" nature of the harvest suggests an overwhelming opportunity for spiritual growth and conversion, indicating that many are ready to hear and accept the message of Christ.

but the workers are few
The word "workers" comes from the Greek "ἐργάται" (ergatai), meaning laborers or those who toil. This highlights the need for active participation and effort in the mission of spreading the Gospel. The phrase "are few" points to a shortage or lack of sufficient laborers to meet the needs of the abundant harvest. Historically, this reflects the early Christian community's challenge in reaching the vast number of people who had not yet heard the message of Jesus. It serves as a call to action for believers to step into their roles as workers in God's kingdom, emphasizing the urgency and importance of evangelism.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is speaking to His disciples. He is the one who observes the spiritual state of the people and provides insight into the need for more workers in God's kingdom.

2. Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' statement. They are learners and followers of Jesus, being prepared to carry out His mission.

3. The Harvest
A metaphor used by Jesus to describe the readiness of people to receive the Gospel. It implies a time of gathering and reaping the spiritual fruits.

4. Workers
Those who are called to labor in God's field, spreading the Gospel and nurturing new believers.

5. The Field
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, it is implied as the world or the community where the harvest is to be gathered.

Teaching Points

Recognizing the Harvest
As believers, we must be aware of the spiritual readiness around us. The world is full of people who are seeking truth and hope, and we are called to be attentive to these opportunities.

The Need for Workers
There is a significant need for more laborers in God's kingdom. This is a call to action for every believer to consider their role in spreading the Gospel.

Prayer for Laborers
Jesus' statement should prompt us to pray earnestly for more workers to be sent into the harvest. This includes praying for ourselves to be willing and equipped to serve.

Active Participation
Each believer has a part to play in the harvest. Whether through direct evangelism, supporting missions, or discipling others, we are all called to contribute.

Dependence on God
While the harvest is plentiful, it is God who ultimately brings people to Himself. We must rely on His guidance and power in our efforts.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the metaphor of the "harvest" reveal about the spiritual state of the world during Jesus' time, and how does it apply today?

2. In what ways can you personally respond to the need for more workers in the harvest field?

3. How does understanding the original Greek word for "workers" (ergatai) as laborers or toilers influence your view of Christian service?

4. How can you incorporate prayer for more laborers into your daily spiritual practice, and what specific areas of the world or community can you focus on?

5. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or participated in a "harvest" moment. What did you learn from that experience, and how can it encourage you to be more active in sharing your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 4:35
Jesus speaks of the fields being ripe for harvest, emphasizing the urgency and readiness of people to receive the Gospel.

Luke 10:2
This verse parallels Matthew 9:37, where Jesus again mentions the plentiful harvest and the need for more laborers, highlighting the consistency of this message in His ministry.

1 Corinthians 3:6-9
Paul discusses the roles of different workers in God's field, emphasizing that while some plant and others water, it is God who gives the growth.