Matthew 9:35
Verse
Context
The Lord of the Harvest
34But the Pharisees said, “It is by the prince of demons that He drives out demons.”35Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness.36When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
Sermons
Ray Comfort
K.P. Yohannan
J. Sidlow Baxter
Oswald J. Smith
Carter Conlon
Milton Green
Josef TsonSummary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
THIRD GALILEAN CIRCUIT--MISSION OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES. (Mat. 9:35-10:5) 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--The italicized words are of more than doubtful authority here, and were probably introduced here from Mat 4:23. The language here is so identical with that used in describing the first circuit (Mat 4:23), that we may presume the work done on both occasions was much the same. It was just a further preparation of the soil, and a fresh sowing of the precious seed. (See on Mat 4:23). To these fruitful journeyings of the Redeemer, "with healing in His wings," Peter no doubt alludes, when, in his address to the household of Cornelius, he spoke of "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil: for God was with Him" (Act 10:38). Jesus Compassionating the Multitudes, Asks Prayer for Help (Mat 9:36-38). He had now returned from His preaching and healing circuit, and the result, as at the close of the first one, was the gathering of a vast and motley multitude around Him. After a whole night spent in prayer, He had called His more immediate disciples, and from them had solemnly chosen the twelve; then, coming down from the mountain, on which this was transacted, to the multitudes that waited for Him below, He had addressed to them--as we take it--that discourse which bears so strong a resemblance to the Sermon on the Mount that many critics take it to be the same. (See on Luke 6:12-49; and Mat 5:1, Introductory Remarks). Soon after this, it should seem, the multitudes still hanging on Him, Jesus is touched with their wretched and helpless condition, and acts as is now to be described.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then saith he unto his disciples,.... His heart being drawn out, and filled with pity to these poor people, upon observing the miserable and sad condition they were in; he turns himself to his disciples, whom he was about to call, and send forth in a more public manner to preach the Gospel, of which we read in the following chapter; and in order to quicken them to this service, and engage their hearts in it, says unto them, the harvest truly is plenteous; meaning the large number of God's elect, which were in these cities, towns, and villages, and in other places: not that these were maturely prepared by anything in themselves, or done by them, for the grace of God; and much less ripe for the kingdom of glory, and therefore called an harvest: but as there are the appointed weeks of the harvest, or a set time for the harvest to be gathered in, so there is a certain fixed time, settled in the counsel, and by the purpose of God, for the effectual calling and conversion of his elect; and this time being come, with respect to these in Galilee, and other parts, Christ calls them an "harvest"; and because of their number, a large, or "plenteous" one. But the labourers are few: Gospel ministers; whose calling is a laborious one; whose business is to labour in the word and doctrine; to be constant in prayer; to give up themselves to meditation and reading; to study to show themselves workmen; to preach the word in season, and out of season; and diligently discharge the several duties of their office, to the glory of Christ, and the good of souls: but such painful and laborious ministers, who are willing to spend, and be spent for Christ and immortal souls, have been but few in all ages; generally speaking, there are more loiterers than labourers.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here is, I. A conclusion of the foregoing account of Christ's preaching and miracles (Mat 9:35); He went about all the cities teaching and healing. This is the same we had before, Mat 4:23. There it ushers in the more particular record of Christ's preaching (ch. 5, 6 and 7) and of his cures (ch. 8 and 9), and here it is elegantly repeated in the close of these instances, as the quod erat demonstrandum - the point to be proved; as if the evangelist should say, "Now I hope I have made it out, by an induction of particulars, that Christ preached and healed; for you have had the heads of his sermons, and some few instances of his cures, which were wrought to confirm his doctrine: and these were written that you might believe." Some think that this was a second perambulation in Galilee, like the former; he visited again those whom he had before preached to. Though the Pharisees cavilled at him and opposed him, he went on with his work; he preached the gospel of the kingdom. He told them of a kingdom of grace and glory, now to be set up under the government of a Mediator: this was gospel indeed, good news, glad tidings of great joy. Observe how Christ in his preaching had respect, 1. To the private towns. He visited not only the great and wealthy cities, but the poor, obscure villages; there he preached, there he healed. The souls of those that are meanest in the world are as precious to Christ, and should be to us, as the souls of those that make the greatest figure. Rich and poor meet together in him, citizens and boors: his righteous acts towards the inhabitants of his villages must be rehearsed, Jdg 5:11. 2. To the public worship. He taught in their synagogues, (1.) That he might bear a testimony to solemn assemblies, even then when there were corruptions in them. We must not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is. (2.) That he might have an opportunity of preaching there, where people were gathered together, with an expectation to hear. Thus, even where the gospel church was founded, and Christian meetings erected, the apostles often preached in the synagogues of the Jews. It is the wisdom of the prudent, to make the best of that which is. II. A preface, or introduction, to the account in the following chapter, of his sending forth his apostles. He took notice of the multitude (Mat 9:36); not only of the crowds that followed him, but of the vast numbers of people with whom (as he passed along) he observed the country to be replenished; he noticed what nests of souls the towns and cities were, and how thick of inhabitants; what abundance of people there were in every synagogue, and what places of concourse the openings of the gates were: so very populous was that nation now grown; and it was the effect of God's blessing on Abraham. Seeing this, 1. He pities them, and was concerned for them (Mat 9:36); He was moved with compassion on them; not upon a temporal account, as he pities the blind, and lame, and sick; but upon a spiritual account; he was concerned to see them ignorant and careless, and ready to perish for lack of vision. Note, Jesus Christ is a very compassionate friend to precious souls; here his bowels do in a special manner yearn. It was pity to souls that brought him from heaven to earth, and there to the cross. Misery is the object of mercy; and the miseries of sinful, self-destroying souls, are the greatest miseries: Christ pities those most that pity themselves least; so should we. The most Christian compassion is compassion to souls; it is most Christ-like. See what moved this pity. (1.) They fainted; they were destitute, vexed, wearied. They strayed, so some; were loosed one from another; The staff of bands was broken, Zac 11:14. They wanted help for their souls, and had none at hand that was good for any thing. The scribes and Pharisees filled them with vain notions, burthened them with the traditions of the elders, deluded them into many mistakes, while they were not instructed in their duty, nor acquainted with the extent and spiritual nature of the divine law; therefore they fainted; for what spiritual health, and life, and vigour can there be in those souls, that are fed with husks and ashes, instead of the bread of life? Precious souls faint when duty is to be done, temptations to be resisted, afflictions to be borne, being not nourished up with the word of truth. (2.) They were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. That expression is borrowed from Kg1 22:17, and it sets forth the sad condition of those that are destitute of faithful guides to go before them in the things of God. No creature is more apt to go astray than a sheep, and when gone astray more helpless, shiftless, and exposed, or more unapt to find the way home again: sinful souls are as lost sheep; they need the care of shepherds to bring them back. The teachers the Jews then had pretended to be shepherds, yet Christ says they had not shepherds, for they were worse than none; idle shepherds that led them away, instead of leading them back, and fleeced the flock, instead of feeding it: such shepherds as were described, Jer 23:1, etc. Eze 34:2, etc. Note, The case of those people is very pitiable, who either have no ministers at all, or those that are as bad as none; that seek their own things, not the things of Christ and souls. 2. He excited his disciples to pray for them. His pity put him upon devising means for the good of these people. It appears (Luk 6:12, Luk 6:13) that upon this occasion, before he sent out his apostles, he did himself spend a great deal of time in prayer. Note, Those we pity we should pray for. Having spoken to God for them he turns to his disciples, and tells them, (1.) How the case stood; The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. People desired good preaching, but there were few good preachers. There was a great deal of work to be done, and a great deal of good likely to be done, but there wanted hands to do it. [1.] It was an encouragement, that the harvest was so plenteous. It was not strange, that there were multitudes that needed instruction, but it was what does not often happen, that they who needed it, desired it, and were forward to receive it. They that were ill taught were desirous to be better taught; people's expectations were raised, and there was such a moving of affections, as promised well. Note, It is a blessed thing, to see people in love with good preaching. The valleys are then covered over with corn, and there are hopes it may be well gathered in. That is a gale of opportunity, that calls for a double care and diligence in the improvement of it; a harvest-day should be a busy day. [2.] It was a pity when it was so that the labourers should be so few; that the corn should shed and spoil, and rot upon the ground for want of reapers; loiterers many, but labourers very few. Note, It is ill with the church, when good work stands still, or goes slowly on, for want of good workmen; when it is so, the labourers that there are have need to be very busy. (2.) What was their duty in this case (Mat 9:38); Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest. Note, The melancholy aspect of the times and the deplorable state of precious souls, should much excite and quicken prayer. When things look discouraging, we should pray more, and then we should complain and fear less. And we should adapt our prayers to the present exigencies of the church; such an understanding we ought to have of the times, as to know, not only what Israel ought to do, but what Israel ought to pray for. Note, [1.] God is the Lord of the harvest; my Father is the Husbandman, Joh 15:1. It is the vineyard of the Lord of hosts, Isa 5:7. It is for him and to him, and to his service and honour, that the harvest is gathered in. Ye are God's husbandry (Co1 3:9); his threshing, and the corn of his floor, Isa 21:10. He orders every thing concerning the harvest as he pleases; when and where the labourers shall work, and how long; and it is very comfortable to those who wish well to the harvest-work, that God himself presides in it, who will be sure to order all for the best. [2.] Ministers are and should be labourers in God's harvest; the ministry is a work and must be attended to accordingly; it is harvest-work, which is needful work; work that requires every thing to be done in its season, and diligence to do it thoroughly; but it is pleasant work; they reap in joy, and the joy of the preachers of the gospel is likened to the joy of harvest (Isa 9:2, Isa 9:3); and he that reapeth receiveth wages; the hire of the labourers that reap down God's field, shall not be kept back, as theirs was, Jam 5:4. [3.] It is God's work to send forth labourers; Christ makes ministers (Eph 4:11); the office is of his appointing, the qualifications of his working, the call of his giving. They will not be owned nor paid as labourers, that run without their errand, unqualified, uncalled. How shall they preach except they be sent? [4.] All that love Christ and souls, should show it by their earnest prayers to God, especially when the harvest is plenteous, that he would send forth more skillful, faithful, wise, and industrious labourers into his harvest; that he would raise up such as he will own in the conversion of sinners and the edification of saints; would give them a spirit for the work, call them to it, and succeed them in it; that he would give them wisdom to win souls; that he would thrust forth labourers, so some; intimating unwillingness to go forth, because of their own weakness and the people's badness, and opposition from men, that endeavour to thrust them out of the harvest; but we should pray that all contradiction from within and from without, may be conquered and got over. Christ puts his friends upon praying this, just before he sends apostles forth to labour in the harvest. Note, It is a good sign God is about to bestow some special mercy upon a people, when he stirs up those that have an interest at the throne of grace, to pray for it, Psa 10:17. Further observe, that Christ said this to his disciples, who were to be employed as labourers. They must pray, First, That God would send them forth. Here am I, send me, Isa 6:8. Note, Commissions, given in answer to prayer, are most likely to be successful; Paul is a chosen vessel, for behold he prays, Act 9:11, Act 9:15. Secondly, That he would send others forth. Note, Not the people only, but those who are themselves ministers, should pray for the increase of ministers. Though self-interest makes those that seek their own things desirous to be placed alone (the fewer ministers the more preferments), yet those that seek the things of Christ, desire more workmen, that more work may be done, though they be eclipsed by it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:35–11:1 Jesus here extends his ministry (shown in 4:23–9:34) to others within Israel through his disciples (10:5-6). Jesus’ instructions to his disciples (10:5-42) focus on missionary activity and its consequent opposition and hardship. 9:35 This verse connects with the section begun at 4:23. Matthew has presented Jesus to his readers as the Messiah who teaches, preaches, heals, casts out demons, and calls for a decisive response of faith.
Matthew 9:35
The Lord of the Harvest
34But the Pharisees said, “It is by the prince of demons that He drives out demons.”35Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness.36When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Let Compassion Swallow Your Fear
By Ray Comfort4.1K45:33FearEST 4:16MAT 9:35MAT 10:1LUK 22:39ACT 4:20HEB 13:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about injuring his arm while running to the house. Despite the pain, he continued to preach the gospel with his son-in-law outside the local courts for two and a half years. However, their preaching was eventually made illegal, so they moved to Huntington Beach to continue spreading the gospel. The speaker emphasizes the importance of compassion and active evangelism, comparing those who have not truly repented to tears among the wheat or foolish virgins. He also references the story of Jesus sending out his disciples to preach and heal, highlighting the need for laborers in the harvest.
Caring for the Lost
By K.P. Yohannan3.8K41:39MAT 9:35This sermon emphasizes the importance of being willing to sacrifice and serve the Lord wholeheartedly, sharing stories of missionaries and the impact of their dedication. It calls for a deep commitment to prayer, fasting, and supporting native missionaries to spread the gospel globally. The speaker urges listeners to consider the urgency of the harvest, the suffering of persecuted Christians, and the need to prioritize eternal investments over worldly possessions.
Portrait of the Saviour
By J. Sidlow Baxter3.2K56:30SaviourMAT 6:33MAT 9:35MAT 28:16MRK 16:15LUK 24:49In this sermon, the preacher discusses the four Gospel endings and the last glimpses they give of Jesus. He emphasizes the divine purpose behind the different perspectives presented in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The preacher highlights the importance of knowing Jesus in all four ways, as the risen Savior, the one who gives signs and miracles, the one who speaks with authority, and the one who loves and forgives. The sermon encourages listeners to deepen their understanding of Jesus through studying the four Gospels.
World Missions in the 80's
By Oswald J. Smith2.3K43:08World MissionsMAT 9:35MAT 9:38MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 10:141TI 2:4REV 14:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sending laborers into the harvest fields of the world to spread the gospel. He shares a personal story about the impact of missionary work on his own life and poses the question of why anyone should hear the gospel twice before everyone has heard it once. The speaker urges the audience to take action by either going themselves or supporting missionaries financially. He concludes by stating that it is the responsibility of the Church to evangelize the world and fulfill the commands of Jesus Christ.
The Key to Unlocking the Provision of God
By Carter Conlon2.2K41:38ProvisionMAT 9:35MAT 14:13MAT 15:32MAT 20:34LUK 7:13In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of four lepers who were in a desperate situation during a time of famine. Despite their condition, they decided to head towards the place where provision could be found. As they approached, God struck terror into the enemy forces that were starving the people. The preacher emphasizes that God can use ordinary and struggling individuals to bring about miraculous provision. The sermon also highlights the importance of trusting in God's provision and being willing to step out in faith, even in the face of difficult circumstances.
(In the Word) 15 - the World in the Church
By Milton Green1.8K1:23:04ISA 1:2JER 8:7MAT 9:35JAS 2:21JN 3:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of staying committed to the word of God and not being swayed by old traditions or wrong teachings. He urges the listeners to follow the messages in the series in numerical order to fully understand and receive the teaching. The preacher highlights the consequences of not taking the covenant of God to heart, leading to desolation and lack of peace. He concludes by warning that the enemy is coming against the house of the Lord, calling for a trumpet to be sounded as a warning.
Harvesting Eternal Rewards - Part 1
By Josef Tson1.4K51:42MAT 9:35In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of becoming like God, as we were created in His image and likeness. The speaker expresses gratitude to the supporters of their mission and shares their experience of preaching the Gospel through radio in Romania. The sermon then delves into the theme of harvest, using Matthew 9:35-38 as the basis. Jesus is portrayed as having compassion for the distressed and lost, comparing them to sheep without a shepherd. The speaker encourages the audience to consider the treasure found in Jesus and the sacrifices that may be required to follow Him. The sermon concludes with a story about a farmer who forgives a portion of his debt, illustrating the concept of grace and the need to respond to God's call.
God's Kingdom Is for the Needy
By Zac Poonen1.2K58:44Kingdom Of GodMAT 4:23MAT 5:3MAT 9:35MAT 24:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being poor in spirit in order to experience the kingdom of heaven. He explains that being poor in spirit means recognizing our need for God and being humble before Him. The preacher also highlights the good news of the gospel, which is that we can become more and more like Jesus and overcome sin in our lives. He encourages believers to let God's word work in their own lives and to speak only what has been proven in their own experiences. The sermon references Romans 14:17 and Matthew 4:23 and 9:35 to support these teachings.
Out of the Comfort Zone Urbana 2000
By George Verwer1.2K50:09Comfort ZoneMAT 9:35MAT 9:37In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a mentor or someone to travel with in our spiritual journey. He shares his own experience of working with a student for 40 years and how it has been a blessing in his life. The speaker also highlights the word "grace" as his favorite word and discusses how his book, "Out of the Comfort Zone," is actually about grace in disguise. He emphasizes the messiness of world missions and the need for understanding and grace among missionaries. The sermon concludes with a reference to Isaiah chapter 6 and the importance of being willing to be sent out for evangelizing the world.
The Coming Harvest
By Robert Coleman1.2K42:52HarvestMAT 9:35MAT 28:19JHN 4:34JHN 4:39In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the Great Commission and the anticipation of the day when it will be fulfilled. Jesus taught his disciples to always be aware of the harvest that is waiting and ready. The speaker emphasizes the need for workers in the harvest and the mission that we are sent to fulfill. Finally, the speaker highlights the joy that comes from participating in the harvest. The sermon references the fourth chapter of the Gospel of John, where Jesus encounters a woman at a well and teaches his disciples about the spiritual harvest.
Slumdog Message
By K.P. Yohannan1.1K25:35SlumdogMAT 6:33MAT 8:1MAT 9:35MAT 25:40JHN 20:21In this sermon, the speaker begins by asking the audience to imagine their own child or grandchild living in poverty and begging on the streets of Mumbai, India. He references the movie "Slumdog Millionaire" as a depiction of the harsh reality faced by millions of children in the slums. The speaker urges the audience not to ignore or make excuses for these children, as they have angels assigned to watch over them. He shares his personal experience of watching the movie and being deeply moved by the suffering of these innocent children, emphasizing that as followers of Christ, it is our responsibility to take action and help those in need.
Western Christianity
By George Verwer99546:27Western ChristianityMAT 6:33MAT 9:35MAT 9:37REV 3:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the twisted state of the world and the media's portrayal of it. He emphasizes the contrast between the negative aspects of society and the positive experiences at a conference where people of different races and backgrounds come together in harmony. The speaker criticizes modern music as a medium that goes beyond communication and influences young people to engage in immoral behavior. He highlights the transformative power of Jesus Christ and the testimonies of young people who have been saved from various backgrounds. The speaker encourages believers to actively engage in the spiritual battle and avoid becoming stagnant in their faith.
Hope for the Least of These
By K.P. Yohannan97050:58GEN 5:24MAT 9:35MAT 25:40LUK 10:30JAS 1:27
This sermon emphasizes the importance of compassion, love, and responsibility in the Christian journey, focusing on reaching out to the marginalized and sharing the message of Christ's love. It challenges listeners to consider their role in helping those in need, especially children in impoverished regions, and highlights the significance of personal repentance, spiritual growth, and living a life aligned with Jesus' teachings.
General Missionary Meeting at Keswick
By George Verwer8821:08:27KeswickMAT 6:33MAT 9:35MAT 9:37MAT 22:14MRK 1:16MRK 2:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on two passages from the Gospel of Mark. The first passage is about Jesus calling Simon, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him and become fishers of men. The second passage is about Jesus calling Matthew, a tax collector, to follow Him. The preacher emphasizes the need for more workers in the harvest and encourages the church to have a renewed vision and commitment to missions. He also shares a testimony of a disabled evangelist in his country who is doing a remarkable job spreading the Gospel.
Revival in South Africa Interview With Erlo Stegen
By Erlo Stegen86832:172CH 7:14MAT 9:35JHN 14:12HEB 13:8JAS 5:16
This sermon shares the powerful testimony of Domine Erlo Stegen's work in South Africa, where God's miraculous intervention led to a revival among the Zulu population. Despite initial challenges and lack of results, God revealed Himself in a profound way, convicting hearts of sin and transforming lives. The revival brought healing, spiritual renewal, and unity across racial divides, demonstrating the impact of the gospel in abolishing barriers and bringing peace. The sermon emphasizes the importance of revival, the conditions for experiencing it, and the ultimate solution for societal challenges lies in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Call of Christ to the Ministry - Part 1
By Shane Idleman80941:57MAT 9:35MAT 9:37
This sermon emphasizes the power of Christ over the demonic realm, Satan, and all aspects of our lives. It delves into the importance of genuine work of the Holy Spirit within the bounds of God's character and truth. The sermon challenges the congregation to distinguish between preferences and truth, urging them to interpret experiences in the light of scripture. It highlights the need for laborers in God's harvest, encouraging individuals to step out, serve, and allow God to open doors for ministry.
The Price to Become Fishers of Men - Part 2
By K.P. Yohannan68613:30Lost MankindMAT 9:35MAT 10:16MAT 10:39ACT 2:4ACT 2:38In this sermon, Dr. K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the urgency and importance of fulfilling the call of Christ to be fishers of men. He highlights the lack of concern and empathy within the church for the lost and suffering in the world. Dr. Yohannan challenges believers to embrace the cross of inconveniences and difficulties in order to fulfill the Great Commission. He references the book of Acts as a model for true discipleship, where believers are willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of the gospel.
Cd Gv502 Grasping the Vision
By George Verwer67100:00MAT 9:35MAT 9:37In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the lack of hunger for God in today's society and the superficiality of modern Christianity. He discusses the importance of personal evangelism and the various methods that can be used to reach the lost, such as literature, videocassettes, and drama. The speaker also shares his own experience of starting a movement to mobilize young people and the church across Europe. He encourages the audience to have a personal vision and to persevere through challenges and discouragement, emphasizing that great faith is not the absence of difficulties but the ability to overcome them.
The Call of Christ to the Ministry - Part 2
By Shane Idleman64244:48MAT 9:35MAT 9:37PHP 2:5
This sermon emphasizes the power of Christ over all struggles in life, including addictions and challenges, highlighting the importance of steps on our part to allow Christ to conquer these obstacles. It delves into the call of Christ for ministry, reminding that the entire world is a mission field with opportunities for everyone to serve. The sermon stresses the need for compassion and ministry in everyday interactions, encouraging listeners to be open to ministry opportunities wherever they are. It also discusses the significance of teaching, preaching, and healing in ministry, emphasizing the importance of serving others and having an outflow of God's love and power in our lives.
The Necessity of Prayer
By George Verwer60151:32Spiritual WarfareThe Power of PrayerPrayerMAT 9:35George Verwer emphasizes the critical importance of prayer in the life of a believer and the church, sharing his own struggles and experiences with prayer. He highlights that prayer is not just a routine but a vital connection to God that fuels spiritual growth and mission work. Verwer urges the audience to prioritize prayer, referencing the power of intercession and the need for a vibrant prayer life to combat spiritual apathy. He recounts stories of how prayer has transformed lives and ministries, stressing that true revival and effective evangelism stem from a deep commitment to prayer. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed dedication to prayer as the foundation for all Christian endeavors.
What Happened to Acts Ch 29
By George Verwer58241:05MissionsMAT 9:35ACT 9:1ACT 20:31ACT 28:311CO 4:131CO 4:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of studying the gospels and understanding the character of Jesus Christ. They highlight how Jesus went about towns and villages, driven by compassion. The speaker also explains the concept of "operation mobilization" and how it involves believers actively demonstrating their love for Jesus. They emphasize that every believer has the responsibility to be a witness for Christ, regardless of their background or abilities. The sermon concludes with the example of the man who was cured of demons, illustrating the power of personal testimony in sharing the saving power of Jesus Christ.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 38
By Zac Poonen57924:32EZK 36:25MAT 1:21MAT 9:27MAT 9:35HEB 8:7
This sermon emphasizes the importance of specific prayers and faith in receiving from God, highlighting the need to be honest about our struggles and to believe in God's ability to work in our lives. It contrasts the principles of the Old Covenant with the New Covenant, focusing on the power of the Holy Spirit in enabling us to live a victorious Christian life. The message encourages believers to seek the true Gospel of the Kingdom, which brings transformation and freedom from sin, rather than just material blessings.
Being European 1994
By George Verwer5401:05:20MissionsMAT 9:35MAT 9:37ACT 13:4ACT 13:91PE 5:21PE 5:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of feeding and overseeing the flock of God with willingness and a ready mind. He encourages humility and submission to one another, as God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. The speaker also highlights the significance of sending in missions, stating that sending is just as important as going. He shares his own testimony of how one woman's prayers and commitment to sharing the Gospel led to the distribution of the Word of God to over 500 million people through OM teams in 60 nations.
Hechos 13 Rompiendo Barreras
By George Verwer5121:02:02MissionsMAT 9:35ACT 13:1In the sermon transcript, the speaker shares a vision that the Lord gave him during a flight in Argentina. He presented this vision in a prayer meeting in London, and the tape of his presentation is now being circulated worldwide. The speaker expresses a desire for the message of reaching the unreached to be spread widely, acknowledging that there is still work to be done in this area. He emphasizes the importance of breaking barriers and being specific and simple in our approach. The speaker also prays for God's guidance and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to share this vision.
Vision Eng to Korean
By George Verwer4731:12:29VisionMAT 9:35MAT 9:37ACT 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of the vision to carry the gospel to every village, every people, and every person in the world. He encourages honesty and integrity in sharing one's testimony, highlighting the commitment to reality that OM (Operation Mobilization) holds. The speaker also emphasizes the need for discipline and a strong vision, as without a vision, discipline can become drudgery. Additionally, he addresses the topic of money, stating that many aspiring long-term missionaries may struggle unless they become more serious about financial matters.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
THIRD GALILEAN CIRCUIT--MISSION OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES. (Mat. 9:35-10:5) 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--The italicized words are of more than doubtful authority here, and were probably introduced here from Mat 4:23. The language here is so identical with that used in describing the first circuit (Mat 4:23), that we may presume the work done on both occasions was much the same. It was just a further preparation of the soil, and a fresh sowing of the precious seed. (See on Mat 4:23). To these fruitful journeyings of the Redeemer, "with healing in His wings," Peter no doubt alludes, when, in his address to the household of Cornelius, he spoke of "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil: for God was with Him" (Act 10:38). Jesus Compassionating the Multitudes, Asks Prayer for Help (Mat 9:36-38). He had now returned from His preaching and healing circuit, and the result, as at the close of the first one, was the gathering of a vast and motley multitude around Him. After a whole night spent in prayer, He had called His more immediate disciples, and from them had solemnly chosen the twelve; then, coming down from the mountain, on which this was transacted, to the multitudes that waited for Him below, He had addressed to them--as we take it--that discourse which bears so strong a resemblance to the Sermon on the Mount that many critics take it to be the same. (See on Luke 6:12-49; and Mat 5:1, Introductory Remarks). Soon after this, it should seem, the multitudes still hanging on Him, Jesus is touched with their wretched and helpless condition, and acts as is now to be described.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then saith he unto his disciples,.... His heart being drawn out, and filled with pity to these poor people, upon observing the miserable and sad condition they were in; he turns himself to his disciples, whom he was about to call, and send forth in a more public manner to preach the Gospel, of which we read in the following chapter; and in order to quicken them to this service, and engage their hearts in it, says unto them, the harvest truly is plenteous; meaning the large number of God's elect, which were in these cities, towns, and villages, and in other places: not that these were maturely prepared by anything in themselves, or done by them, for the grace of God; and much less ripe for the kingdom of glory, and therefore called an harvest: but as there are the appointed weeks of the harvest, or a set time for the harvest to be gathered in, so there is a certain fixed time, settled in the counsel, and by the purpose of God, for the effectual calling and conversion of his elect; and this time being come, with respect to these in Galilee, and other parts, Christ calls them an "harvest"; and because of their number, a large, or "plenteous" one. But the labourers are few: Gospel ministers; whose calling is a laborious one; whose business is to labour in the word and doctrine; to be constant in prayer; to give up themselves to meditation and reading; to study to show themselves workmen; to preach the word in season, and out of season; and diligently discharge the several duties of their office, to the glory of Christ, and the good of souls: but such painful and laborious ministers, who are willing to spend, and be spent for Christ and immortal souls, have been but few in all ages; generally speaking, there are more loiterers than labourers.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here is, I. A conclusion of the foregoing account of Christ's preaching and miracles (Mat 9:35); He went about all the cities teaching and healing. This is the same we had before, Mat 4:23. There it ushers in the more particular record of Christ's preaching (ch. 5, 6 and 7) and of his cures (ch. 8 and 9), and here it is elegantly repeated in the close of these instances, as the quod erat demonstrandum - the point to be proved; as if the evangelist should say, "Now I hope I have made it out, by an induction of particulars, that Christ preached and healed; for you have had the heads of his sermons, and some few instances of his cures, which were wrought to confirm his doctrine: and these were written that you might believe." Some think that this was a second perambulation in Galilee, like the former; he visited again those whom he had before preached to. Though the Pharisees cavilled at him and opposed him, he went on with his work; he preached the gospel of the kingdom. He told them of a kingdom of grace and glory, now to be set up under the government of a Mediator: this was gospel indeed, good news, glad tidings of great joy. Observe how Christ in his preaching had respect, 1. To the private towns. He visited not only the great and wealthy cities, but the poor, obscure villages; there he preached, there he healed. The souls of those that are meanest in the world are as precious to Christ, and should be to us, as the souls of those that make the greatest figure. Rich and poor meet together in him, citizens and boors: his righteous acts towards the inhabitants of his villages must be rehearsed, Jdg 5:11. 2. To the public worship. He taught in their synagogues, (1.) That he might bear a testimony to solemn assemblies, even then when there were corruptions in them. We must not forsake the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is. (2.) That he might have an opportunity of preaching there, where people were gathered together, with an expectation to hear. Thus, even where the gospel church was founded, and Christian meetings erected, the apostles often preached in the synagogues of the Jews. It is the wisdom of the prudent, to make the best of that which is. II. A preface, or introduction, to the account in the following chapter, of his sending forth his apostles. He took notice of the multitude (Mat 9:36); not only of the crowds that followed him, but of the vast numbers of people with whom (as he passed along) he observed the country to be replenished; he noticed what nests of souls the towns and cities were, and how thick of inhabitants; what abundance of people there were in every synagogue, and what places of concourse the openings of the gates were: so very populous was that nation now grown; and it was the effect of God's blessing on Abraham. Seeing this, 1. He pities them, and was concerned for them (Mat 9:36); He was moved with compassion on them; not upon a temporal account, as he pities the blind, and lame, and sick; but upon a spiritual account; he was concerned to see them ignorant and careless, and ready to perish for lack of vision. Note, Jesus Christ is a very compassionate friend to precious souls; here his bowels do in a special manner yearn. It was pity to souls that brought him from heaven to earth, and there to the cross. Misery is the object of mercy; and the miseries of sinful, self-destroying souls, are the greatest miseries: Christ pities those most that pity themselves least; so should we. The most Christian compassion is compassion to souls; it is most Christ-like. See what moved this pity. (1.) They fainted; they were destitute, vexed, wearied. They strayed, so some; were loosed one from another; The staff of bands was broken, Zac 11:14. They wanted help for their souls, and had none at hand that was good for any thing. The scribes and Pharisees filled them with vain notions, burthened them with the traditions of the elders, deluded them into many mistakes, while they were not instructed in their duty, nor acquainted with the extent and spiritual nature of the divine law; therefore they fainted; for what spiritual health, and life, and vigour can there be in those souls, that are fed with husks and ashes, instead of the bread of life? Precious souls faint when duty is to be done, temptations to be resisted, afflictions to be borne, being not nourished up with the word of truth. (2.) They were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. That expression is borrowed from Kg1 22:17, and it sets forth the sad condition of those that are destitute of faithful guides to go before them in the things of God. No creature is more apt to go astray than a sheep, and when gone astray more helpless, shiftless, and exposed, or more unapt to find the way home again: sinful souls are as lost sheep; they need the care of shepherds to bring them back. The teachers the Jews then had pretended to be shepherds, yet Christ says they had not shepherds, for they were worse than none; idle shepherds that led them away, instead of leading them back, and fleeced the flock, instead of feeding it: such shepherds as were described, Jer 23:1, etc. Eze 34:2, etc. Note, The case of those people is very pitiable, who either have no ministers at all, or those that are as bad as none; that seek their own things, not the things of Christ and souls. 2. He excited his disciples to pray for them. His pity put him upon devising means for the good of these people. It appears (Luk 6:12, Luk 6:13) that upon this occasion, before he sent out his apostles, he did himself spend a great deal of time in prayer. Note, Those we pity we should pray for. Having spoken to God for them he turns to his disciples, and tells them, (1.) How the case stood; The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. People desired good preaching, but there were few good preachers. There was a great deal of work to be done, and a great deal of good likely to be done, but there wanted hands to do it. [1.] It was an encouragement, that the harvest was so plenteous. It was not strange, that there were multitudes that needed instruction, but it was what does not often happen, that they who needed it, desired it, and were forward to receive it. They that were ill taught were desirous to be better taught; people's expectations were raised, and there was such a moving of affections, as promised well. Note, It is a blessed thing, to see people in love with good preaching. The valleys are then covered over with corn, and there are hopes it may be well gathered in. That is a gale of opportunity, that calls for a double care and diligence in the improvement of it; a harvest-day should be a busy day. [2.] It was a pity when it was so that the labourers should be so few; that the corn should shed and spoil, and rot upon the ground for want of reapers; loiterers many, but labourers very few. Note, It is ill with the church, when good work stands still, or goes slowly on, for want of good workmen; when it is so, the labourers that there are have need to be very busy. (2.) What was their duty in this case (Mat 9:38); Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest. Note, The melancholy aspect of the times and the deplorable state of precious souls, should much excite and quicken prayer. When things look discouraging, we should pray more, and then we should complain and fear less. And we should adapt our prayers to the present exigencies of the church; such an understanding we ought to have of the times, as to know, not only what Israel ought to do, but what Israel ought to pray for. Note, [1.] God is the Lord of the harvest; my Father is the Husbandman, Joh 15:1. It is the vineyard of the Lord of hosts, Isa 5:7. It is for him and to him, and to his service and honour, that the harvest is gathered in. Ye are God's husbandry (Co1 3:9); his threshing, and the corn of his floor, Isa 21:10. He orders every thing concerning the harvest as he pleases; when and where the labourers shall work, and how long; and it is very comfortable to those who wish well to the harvest-work, that God himself presides in it, who will be sure to order all for the best. [2.] Ministers are and should be labourers in God's harvest; the ministry is a work and must be attended to accordingly; it is harvest-work, which is needful work; work that requires every thing to be done in its season, and diligence to do it thoroughly; but it is pleasant work; they reap in joy, and the joy of the preachers of the gospel is likened to the joy of harvest (Isa 9:2, Isa 9:3); and he that reapeth receiveth wages; the hire of the labourers that reap down God's field, shall not be kept back, as theirs was, Jam 5:4. [3.] It is God's work to send forth labourers; Christ makes ministers (Eph 4:11); the office is of his appointing, the qualifications of his working, the call of his giving. They will not be owned nor paid as labourers, that run without their errand, unqualified, uncalled. How shall they preach except they be sent? [4.] All that love Christ and souls, should show it by their earnest prayers to God, especially when the harvest is plenteous, that he would send forth more skillful, faithful, wise, and industrious labourers into his harvest; that he would raise up such as he will own in the conversion of sinners and the edification of saints; would give them a spirit for the work, call them to it, and succeed them in it; that he would give them wisdom to win souls; that he would thrust forth labourers, so some; intimating unwillingness to go forth, because of their own weakness and the people's badness, and opposition from men, that endeavour to thrust them out of the harvest; but we should pray that all contradiction from within and from without, may be conquered and got over. Christ puts his friends upon praying this, just before he sends apostles forth to labour in the harvest. Note, It is a good sign God is about to bestow some special mercy upon a people, when he stirs up those that have an interest at the throne of grace, to pray for it, Psa 10:17. Further observe, that Christ said this to his disciples, who were to be employed as labourers. They must pray, First, That God would send them forth. Here am I, send me, Isa 6:8. Note, Commissions, given in answer to prayer, are most likely to be successful; Paul is a chosen vessel, for behold he prays, Act 9:11, Act 9:15. Secondly, That he would send others forth. Note, Not the people only, but those who are themselves ministers, should pray for the increase of ministers. Though self-interest makes those that seek their own things desirous to be placed alone (the fewer ministers the more preferments), yet those that seek the things of Christ, desire more workmen, that more work may be done, though they be eclipsed by it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:35–11:1 Jesus here extends his ministry (shown in 4:23–9:34) to others within Israel through his disciples (10:5-6). Jesus’ instructions to his disciples (10:5-42) focus on missionary activity and its consequent opposition and hardship. 9:35 This verse connects with the section begun at 4:23. Matthew has presented Jesus to his readers as the Messiah who teaches, preaches, heals, casts out demons, and calls for a decisive response of faith.