THE HARVEST TRULY IS PLENTIFUL
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 9:35-38
Key Verse: “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few.” (Matthew 9:37)
Supporting Texts: John 4:35, Luke 10:2, Acts 1:8, Romans 10:13-15, Mark 16:15
Description: This study reveals the urgency, magnitude, and divine opportunity of soul winning in God’s Kingdom and the believer’s responsibility in the end-time harvest.
INTRODUCTION
In Matthew chapter 9, Jesus concluded His ministry activity by revealing a deep spiritual reality: the harvest of souls is abundant. As He looked upon the multitudes, He saw not just people but a vast field ready for harvest. However, He also identified a challenge: there were too few labourers.
The “harvest” represents souls: people who are ready to hear, receive, and respond to the Gospel. God’s desire is that none should perish but that all should come to repentance. Yet, without willing workers, many remain unreached.
This message is a divine awakening to every believer that the world is ready, the opportunity is great, and the responsibility is urgent.
1. GOD SEES A GREAT SPIRITUAL HARVEST
God views humanity as a field ready for gathering.
a) Jesus declared the harvest is plentiful (Matthew 9:37)
Many souls are open and ready for the Gospel message.
b) The fields are already white for harvest (John 4:35)
God has prepared hearts across the world to receive salvation.
c) God desires all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4)
The heart of God is salvation for every nation and people.
d) The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16)
God has already provided the means for harvest through Christ.
Biblical Example:
Peter preached on the day of Pentecost, and about three thousand souls were added to the Church in one day (Acts 2:41).
2. THE CHALLENGE IS NOT THE HARVEST BUT THE LABOURERS
The limitation is not opportunity but availability.
a) Jesus said labourers are few (Matthew 9:37)
There is abundance of opportunity but scarcity of workers.
b) Many are called but few are willing (Matthew 22:14)
Commitment is what distinguishes labourers from observers.
c) Every believer is called to witness (Acts 1:8)
The Holy Spirit empowers all Christians for evangelism.
d) Delay in labour leads to loss of souls (Proverbs 24:11)
Ignoring the harvest results in missed opportunities.
Biblical Example:
Jonah initially resisted God’s call, delaying the message to Nineveh until he obeyed and the city repented (Jonah 3:1-5).
3. GOD CALLS BELIEVERS TO PRAY FOR LABOURERS
Prayer is the gateway to evangelistic effectiveness.
a) Jesus commanded prayer for labourers (Matthew 9:38)
God invites believers to partner with Him in prayer.
b) Prayer releases workers into the harvest (Luke 10:2)
God answers prayers by raising ministers and evangelists.
c) The Holy Spirit directs evangelistic work (Acts 13:2-4)
Divine guidance ensures effective mission.
d) Prayer strengthens spiritual burden for souls (Romans 9:1-3)
Intercession creates compassion for the lost.
Biblical Example:
The early Church prayed and the Holy Spirit sent Paul and Barnabas into missionary work (Acts 13:2-3).
4. EVERY BELIEVER IS A LABOURER IN THE HARVEST
Soul winning is the responsibility of all Christians.
a) Jesus commanded all believers to preach the Gospel (Mark 16:15)
The Great Commission is for every disciple.
b) We are co-labourers with God (1 Corinthians 3:9)
God partners with His people in reaching the world.
c) Evangelism brings eternal reward (Daniel 12:3)
Those who win souls shine forever.
d) Time is limited; urgency is required (John 9:4)
The work of God must be done while there is opportunity.
Biblical Example:
Philip evangelised in Samaria, leading many to salvation and great joy in the city (Acts 8:5-8).
CONCLUSION
Jesus revealed a powerful truth: the harvest is truly plentiful. There are many souls ready for salvation, but the labourers are few. God is calling believers to rise with urgency, compassion, and commitment to reach the lost.
Every believer has a role in the harvest. Through prayer, evangelism, and obedience, we can participate in God’s global mission of salvation. The time is now, the harvest is ready.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, open my eyes to see the harvest around me in Jesus name
2. Father, give me a burden for soul winning in Jesus name
3. Lord, make me a faithful labourer in Your vineyard in Jesus name
4. Father, remove every spirit of laziness and indifference from my life in Jesus name
5. Lord, empower me by Your Holy Spirit for evangelism in Jesus name
6. Father, send more labourers into Your harvest field in Jesus name
7. Lord, use my life to bring many souls into Your Kingdom in Jesus name
8. Father, give me boldness to preach the Gospel without fear in Jesus name
9. Lord, let my efforts in soul winning be fruitful and effective in Jesus name
10. Father, help me to remain committed to Your Great Commission in Jesus name
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS
1. The Lord shall open your eyes to the urgency of the harvest!
2. You shall become a fruitful and effective labourer in God’s vineyard!
3. Every spirit of spiritual laziness is broken over your life!
4. God shall use you to win many souls into His Kingdom!
5. Your voice shall carry power and bring salvation to many!
6. You shall not miss your divine assignment in this end-time harvest!
7. The Holy Spirit shall empower you for bold evangelism!
8. Your life shall produce eternal rewards and lasting impact!
9. God shall send you where souls are ready and prepared!
10. You shall finish your assignment with joy and great testimonies!
