King James Version

What Does Matthew 9:37 Mean?

Matthew 9:37 in the King James Version says “Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Matthew 9:37 · KJV

Context

35

And Jesus went 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.

36

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted , and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. fainted: or, were tired and lay down

37

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

38

Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus offers agricultural metaphor: 'The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few' (Ο μεν θερισμος πολυς οι δε εργαται ολιγοι). 'Harvest' (θερισμος) represents people ready to respond to the gospel—the fields are 'white unto harvest' (John 4:35), indicating readiness and urgency. 'Plenteous' (πολυς) emphasizes abundance: vast numbers need the gospel. However, 'labourers' (εργαται, workers) are 'few' (ολιγοι). The problem isn't lack of receptive people but shortage of workers to reach them. This creates urgency: harvest timing is critical; delay means lost opportunity. The metaphor shifts from shepherding (9:36) to harvesting, both expressing need for workers. Jesus prepares to send out the Twelve (chapter 10), expanding ministry beyond His personal reach through multiplied workers.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Agricultural imagery would resonate with Jesus' largely agrarian audience. Harvest was intense, time-sensitive work requiring many hands. Missing the harvest window meant crop loss. In spiritual terms, Jesus sees Israel ripe for response but lacking adequate workers to reach them. The Twelve's commissioning (chapter 10) addresses this need by multiplying ministry. Early church understood mission as harvest work (Romans 1:13, 1 Corinthians 3:6-9). The urgency remains: people ready to respond but lacking workers to reach them with the gospel.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does viewing evangelism and mission as 'harvest' shape our understanding of urgency?
  2. What prevents Christians from becoming laborers in the plenteous harvest?
  3. How can churches identify and mobilize workers for gospel ministry?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
τότε1 of 13

“Then”

G5119

the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)

λέγει2 of 13

“saith”

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

τοῖς3 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

μαθηταῖς4 of 13

“disciples”

G3101

a learner, i.e., pupil

αὐτοῦ5 of 13
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Ὁ6 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

μὲν7 of 13

“truly”

G3303

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

θερισμὸς8 of 13

“The harvest”

G2326

reaping, i.e., the crop

πολύς,9 of 13

“is plenteous”

G4183

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

οἱ10 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ11 of 13

“but”

G1161

but, and, etc

ἐργάται12 of 13

“the labourers”

G2040

a toiler; figuratively, a teacher

ὀλίγοι·13 of 13

“are few”

G3641

puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 9:37 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 9:37 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 10:2Mark 16:151 Corinthians 3:9John 4:35-36Matthew 28:19Luke 24:47

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