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Matthew 9:37
ESV Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few;
NIV Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.
NASB Then He *said to His disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.
CSB Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is abundant, but the workers are few.
NLT He said to his disciples, 'The harvest is great, but the workers are few.
KJV Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;
NKJV Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few.

What does Matthew 9:37 mean?

Looking out over the massive crowds that have come to see Him, Jesus is filled with compassion for the people. He sees that they are harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. This is not only an expression of care for the people. It's an indictment of the failed spiritual leaders of Israel (John 10:11–13). In response to this compassion for the people, Jesus turns to His followers. His comment here meshes with remarks Jesus made after speaking to the woman at the well: "the fields are white for harvest" (John 4:35).

Jesus seems to be saying that many people are ready to believe in Jesus and be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven. As the Great Shepherd, Jesus understands that this is their greatest need. This is how they will be rescued from their harassed and helpless condition and given peace, joy, and the hope of an eternal home with the Father.

What is the solution to this labor shortage? Jesus will say in the following verse that for His followers, it is prayer.
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