Matthew 9:37

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Matthew 9:37 KJV

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;

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Matthew 9:37 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Matthew 9:37

Verse: "Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few."

Contextual Background

The verse is situated within the Gospel of Matthew, specifically during a period of ministry where Jesus is performing miracles and teaching about the Kingdom of God. His compassion for the people, as indicated in the preceding verses, sets the tone for His proclamation regarding the harvest and workers.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the metaphor of the harvest to depict the vastness of souls ready to come to faith. He notes that Jesus identifies the great need for laborers, who are essential for gathering this spiritual harvest. The implication is that while the potential for growth in the Kingdom is abundant, there exists a deficiency in those prepared to work effectively. Henry urges that an earnest prayer to the Lord of the harvest is fundamental—this call to prayer highlights the believer's role in seeking divine assistance for the harvest.

Key Observations:

  • Compassion of Christ: Henry points out that Jesus’ statement arises from His compassion for the lost. He was moved by their plight and the urgency of their situation.
  • Call to Action: It serves as a reminder to disciples that the call to evangelism is not just a task but a compassionate response to the needs of others.
  • Role of Prayer: The necessity of prayer is reinforced as disciples are encouraged to ask God to send forth workers into His harvest. This indicates a divine partnership in the work of evangelism.

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes provides a practical perspective by dissecting the implications of the harvest metaphor. He asserts that the harvest represents the multitude of souls ready to receive the gospel. Barnes elaborates on the difference between the abundant harvest and the scarcity of laborers, underscoring the urgency and weight of the situation. This highlights a need for both awareness of the opportunity and the mobilization of resources to meet that need. He comments also on the characteristics of effective laborers, suggesting they must be called, equipped, and able to persevere under stretching conditions.

Notable Points:

  • Urgency of the Task: Barnes stresses that the harvest signifies time-sensitive opportunities for evangelism. Delaying action can lead to missed opportunities.
  • Characteristics of Laborers: He mentions that effective workers should be spiritually mature and possess a heart for God’s people.
  • Pray for Laborers: The directive to pray for laborers calls for collective responsibility among believers to seek out and nurture those who can engage in the harvest.

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke delves into the linguistic and cultural context surrounding the metaphor of harvest. He notes that in the agrarian society of Jesus’ time, the period of harvest was critical and often filled with urgency and intensity. Clarke indicates that the phrase "the labourers are few" challenges the community to recognize their role in God’s redemptive work. His commentary brings attention to the Christian responsibility in participating in this harvest, which is not merely transactional but transformational, where lives are changed and redeemed through truth.

Significant Insights:

  • Cultural Relevance: Clarke’s historical context shows the immediacy of the harvest metaphor in the lives of the people, encouraging deeper understanding in today’s context.
  • Transformational Evangelism: He emphasizes that true labor in the harvest isn't just about numbers but about genuine conversions and life changes.
  • Empowerment of Believers: The need for laborers must ignite a sense of urgency and commitment among the disciples to engage actively in the mission of the Church.

Theological Implications

This verse encapsulates several essential theological themes:

  • God's Sovereignty: It underscores God's overarching plan in bringing people to Himself and the role of human co-laborers in that divine mission.
  • Understanding of Ministry: The call to become laborers involves understanding the nature of discipleship as active participation in God's work.
  • Community and Partnership: The passage emphasizes the body of Christ working together, reflecting the importance of unity and collective effort in evangelism.

Conclusion

Matthew 9:37 serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for workers in the Kingdom of God. Through the insights provided by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we discern not only the spiritual realities of the harvest but also the responsibilities of believers to actively engage in bringing others to the knowledge of Christ. This passage challenges us to pray fervently and work diligently, ensuring that we do not merely observe the plentiful harvest but respond with decisive action as laborers sent forth into the fields.

Matthew 9 (KJV) Verse Selection

Matthew 9:1 Matthew 9:2 Matthew 9:3 Matthew 9:4 Matthew 9:5 Matthew 9:6 Matthew 9:7 Matthew 9:8 Matthew 9:9 Matthew 9:10 Matthew 9:11 Matthew 9:12 Matthew 9:13 Matthew 9:14 Matthew 9:15 Matthew 9:16 Matthew 9:17 Matthew 9:18 Matthew 9:19 Matthew 9:20 Matthew 9:21 Matthew 9:22 Matthew 9:23 Matthew 9:24 Matthew 9:25 Matthew 9:26 Matthew 9:27 Matthew 9:28 Matthew 9:29 Matthew 9:30 Matthew 9:31 Matthew 9:32 Matthew 9:33 Matthew 9:34 Matthew 9:35 Matthew 9:36 Matthew 9:37 Matthew 9:38

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