Matthew 9:37

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G5119} saith {G3004} he unto his {G846} disciples {G3101}, The harvest {G2326} truly {G3303} is plenteous {G4183}, but {G1161} the labourers {G2040} are few {G3641};

Complete Jewish Bible

Then he said to his talmidim, "The harvest is rich, but the workers are few.

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest indeed is plenteous, but the laborers are few.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jesus offers a poignant observation to His disciples, revealing the vast spiritual need of humanity ("The harvest truly is plenteous") juxtaposed with the scarcity of dedicated individuals ("but the labourers are few") committed to engaging in God's redemptive work. This statement encapsulates His profound compassion for the lost and serves as a foundational call to prayer and active participation in the divine mission of gathering souls into the kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This declaration from Jesus immediately follows a crucial summary of His extensive ministry throughout Galilee, where He was "going about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people" ([Matthew 9:35](/matthew/9-35 "Matthew 9:35 - Jesus' Ministry of Teaching, Preaching, and Healing")). The verse is directly preceded by the profound statement of Jesus' compassion for the multitudes, whom He saw as "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" ([Matthew 9:36](/matthew/9-36 "Matthew 9:36 - Jesus' Compassion for the Multitudes")). Thus, [Matthew 9:37](/matthew/9-37 "Matthew 9:37 - The Abundant Harvest and Few Laborers") flows directly from His empathetic observation of humanity's spiritual plight. It then sets the stage for His subsequent instruction in [Matthew 9:38](/matthew/9-38 "Matthew 9:38 - Pray for Laborers"), where He commands His disciples to "pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest," establishing a direct link between the problem identified and the divine solution. This passage serves as a transition from Jesus' individual acts of healing and teaching to the broader imperative of the disciples' participation in His mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Palestine was predominantly an agrarian society, where the annual harvest was a central and vital event. The imagery of a "harvest" would have been immediately understood by Jesus' disciples and His audience. The harvest season was characterized by intense, time-sensitive labor, as ripe crops needed to be gathered quickly before they spoiled or were lost. This agricultural reality provided a powerful metaphor for the spiritual realm. Furthermore, the people of Israel, though under Roman rule, were often spiritually adrift, lacking true leadership and guidance from their religious authorities, as Jesus' observation of them being "like sheep without a shepherd" indicates. This societal and spiritual vacuum created a fertile ground—a "plenteous harvest"—for the message of the Kingdom of God, yet there were few willing or able to effectively gather them.
* **Key Themes:** The passage in [Matthew 9](/matthew/9 "Matthew 9 - Jesus' Authority and Compassion") contributes to several overarching themes within the Gospel of Matthew and Jesus' ministry. Firstly, it underscores **Jesus' Divine Compassion**, as His observation of the "harassed and helpless" multitudes directly precedes His statement about the harvest. His heart is moved by the spiritual condition of humanity. Secondly, it highlights the **Urgency of the Kingdom Message**. The metaphor of a "harvest" implies a critical window of opportunity; souls are ready, but delay could mean loss. This urgency is a recurring theme in Jesus' teachings, emphasizing the immediate need for repentance and belief in the Gospel. Thirdly, it introduces the theme of **Discipleship and Mission**, shifting the focus from Jesus' solo ministry to the imperative for His followers to participate. The call for "labourers" in [Matthew 9:37](/matthew/9-37 "Matthew 9:37 - The Abundant Harvest and Few Laborers"), followed by the command to pray for them in [Matthew 9:38](/matthew/9-38 "Matthew 9:38 - Pray for Laborers"), foreshadows the Great Commission in [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission"), where disciples are explicitly sent out to make more disciples.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **harvest (Greek, _therismós'_):** From *therízō*, meaning "reaping, i.e., the crop." This word literally refers to the act of gathering ripe crops or the season in which this occurs. Metaphorically, as used here, it signifies a period of spiritual gathering, a time when people are ready to receive the message of the Gospel or are ripe for spiritual transformation. It implies a critical, time-sensitive opportunity for spiritual ingathering.
* **plenteous (Greek, _polýs'_):** Including forms from the alternate *pollós*, meaning "much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely." Here, it emphasizes the vastness and abundance of the spiritual need or the sheer number of people who are spiritually receptive or in desperate need of the Gospel. It underscores the immense scope of the mission.
* **labourers (Greek, _ergátēs'_):** From *érgon*, meaning "a toiler; figuratively, a teacher." This term denotes those who work, toil, or are actively engaged in a task. In this context, it refers to individuals dedicated to the demanding spiritual work of evangelism, discipleship, and ministry—those who actively participate in gathering the spiritual harvest.
* **few (Greek, _olígos'_):** Of uncertain affinity, meaning "puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat." This word highlights the stark contrast to "plenteous," indicating a severe shortage or insufficiency of workers relative to the immense spiritual need. It conveys a sense of lament and urgency regarding the disproportionate ratio.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then saith he unto his disciples":** This phrase establishes the immediate audience for Jesus' profound observation. It indicates that Jesus is not speaking to the general crowd but specifically to those who have committed to following Him, implying that this observation and the subsequent instruction are particularly relevant to their role and mission. It is a direct address, preparing them for a crucial insight into the spiritual reality around them.
* **"The harvest truly is plenteous":** Jesus uses a common agricultural metaphor to describe the spiritual state of the world. The "harvest" represents the vast number of people who are spiritually ready to hear and respond to the Gospel, or who are in a desperate state of spiritual need, akin to ripe crops waiting to be gathered. The word "truly" (G3303, *mén*) emphasizes the undeniable reality and certainty of this abundant spiritual opportunity. It highlights the immense potential for spiritual growth and transformation if only the work is undertaken.
* **"but the labourers are few":** This clause presents a stark contrast and a lament. Despite the abundant spiritual opportunity ("plenteous harvest"), there are insufficient workers to engage in the necessary spiritual toil. The conjunction "but" (G1161, *dé*) underscores this critical disparity. This scarcity of "labourers" (those actively involved in ministry and outreach) creates a bottleneck, preventing the full ingathering of the spiritual harvest. It is a call to recognize this critical shortage and its implications for the advancement of God's kingdom.

#### Literary Devices
[Matthew 9:37](/matthew/9-37 "Matthew 9:37 - The Abundant Harvest and Few Laborers") is rich in literary devices that amplify its message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where Jesus uses the familiar agricultural imagery of a "harvest" to represent the spiritual state of humanity and the process of evangelism and discipleship. The "plenteous harvest" metaphorically stands for the vast number of souls ready for salvation or in desperate need of spiritual guidance, while "labourers" represent those called to share the Gospel and nurture believers. This metaphor connects a tangible, easily understood concept to a profound spiritual reality. Following this, **Contrast** or **Antithesis** is powerfully employed by juxtaposing "plenteous" with "few." This stark opposition highlights the critical imbalance between the immense spiritual opportunity and the limited human resources available to address it. This contrast creates a sense of **Urgency** and lament, implying that the window for gathering this harvest is limited and that the lack of workers is a significant impediment to God's redemptive plan. The very structure of the statement, moving from the positive observation of abundance to the negative reality of scarcity, draws immediate attention to the pressing need.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 9:37 is a pivotal verse that profoundly shapes our understanding of God's mission in the world and the church's role within it. It reveals the heart of Jesus, who sees humanity not as a faceless mass, but as individuals desperately needing spiritual care, like sheep without a shepherd. Theologically, it underscores the sovereign initiative of God in salvation – the "harvest" is His, and He is the "Lord of the harvest." Yet, it simultaneously highlights the indispensable role of human participation. The scarcity of laborers is not a statement of God's inability, but a call to His people to join Him in His redemptive work. This verse serves as a theological foundation for missions, evangelism, and the call to vocational ministry, reminding believers that the spiritual fields are always ripe, and the need for dedicated workers remains constant. It compels the church to prioritize prayer for workers and to actively equip and send them forth.

* [Luke 10:2](/luke/10-2 "Luke 10:2 - The Harvest is Plenteous")
* [John 4:35](/john/4-35 "John 4:35 - The Fields are White for Harvest")
* [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 9:37 serves as a timeless mirror for believers today, challenging us to see the world through Jesus' eyes and to respond with His compassion and urgency. The "plenteous harvest" is not confined to first-century Galilee; it extends to every generation, every nation, and every community. People today are still "harassed and helpless," whether by spiritual blindness, societal pressures, emotional brokenness, or a lack of true spiritual leadership. This verse calls us first to acknowledge this ongoing, immense spiritual need in our own spheres of influence – our families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and across the globe. Secondly, it compels us to obey Jesus' direct command in the following verse: to "pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest." This is not a passive request but an active, persistent intercession for God to raise up and send out individuals—from missionaries and pastors to everyday believers—who are willing to commit their lives to the demanding, yet infinitely rewarding, work of sharing the Gospel and discipling others. Finally, it prompts us to ask ourselves: "Am I one of the labourers?" Every believer is called to participate in the harvest in some capacity, whether through direct evangelism, compassionate service, financial support for missions, or simply living a life that reflects Christ and draws others to Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do I personally perceive the "harvest" in my own community and the world today? Do I see the spiritual need as "plenteous"?**
* **What specific prayers am I offering for more "labourers" to be sent into God's harvest fields, both locally and globally?**
* **In what ways am I currently acting as a "labourer" in God's harvest, and how might I increase my participation and effectiveness?**
* **What "sheep without a shepherd" has God placed on my heart, and how can I respond to their spiritual need with compassion, as Jesus did?**

### FAQ

**What does Jesus mean by "the harvest"?**

Answer: In [Matthew 9:37](/matthew/9-37 "Matthew 9:37 - The Abundant Harvest and Few Laborers"), "the harvest" is a powerful **metaphor** for the vast number of people who are spiritually ready to receive the Gospel message, or who are in a state of profound spiritual need, awaiting guidance and salvation. Just as a farmer's ripe crops must be gathered before they spoil, Jesus implies that there is a critical, time-sensitive opportunity to bring souls into God's kingdom. This imagery is rooted in the agrarian society of the time, where the harvest was a period of intense, urgent activity. It signifies both the opportunity for spiritual ingathering and the urgency with which it must be pursued.

**Who are the "labourers" Jesus refers to, and what is their role today?**

Answer: The "labourers" are those individuals who are called, equipped, and sent by God to participate actively in the spiritual harvest. In Jesus' immediate context, these were His disciples, whom He was preparing to send out. Today, "labourers" encompass all believers who are committed to fulfilling the Great Commission ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). This includes missionaries, pastors, evangelists, teachers, and every Christian who, through their words and deeds, shares the Gospel, makes disciples, serves those in need, and brings glory to God. Their role is to actively engage in the demanding work of spiritual outreach, nurture, and transformation, bringing people into relationship with God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [Matthew 9:37](/matthew/9-37 "Matthew 9:37 - The Abundant Harvest and Few Laborers") highlights a present need, it finds its ultimate fulfillment and impetus in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus is not merely the one who observes the harvest; He is the very "Lord of the harvest," the one who initiates and orchestrates the gathering of souls. His earthly ministry, characterized by teaching, preaching the Gospel of the kingdom, and healing ([Matthew 9:35](/matthew/9-35 "Matthew 9:35 - Jesus' Ministry of Teaching, Preaching, and Healing")), demonstrates Him as the supreme "labourer" who tirelessly sowed the seeds of truth and compassion. He perfectly embodied the selfless dedication required, ultimately laying down His life as the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). His death and resurrection are the pivotal events that make the spiritual harvest possible, providing the means for humanity's reconciliation with God. Furthermore, it is Christ who, having completed His earthly work, sends forth the Holy Spirit to empower His disciples to continue the harvest work ([Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness")). Thus, the call for labourers is a call to participate in Christ's ongoing mission, empowered by His Spirit, to gather those for whom He died, bringing them into the Kingdom He inaugurated.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 10:2

Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly [is] great, but the labourers [are] few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.

Mark 16:15

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

1 Corinthians 3:9

For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, [ye are] God's building.

John 4:35

Say not ye, There are yet four months, and [then] cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

John 4:36

And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.

Matthew 28:19

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

2 Corinthians 6:1

¶ We then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.