Matthew 9:36-37 “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. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;”
Jesus was going to cities and villages, teaching in the synagogue and preaching the gospel of the kingdom.
Having compassion for them, He observed something about the people He was teaching. They were distressed or troubled, one rendering even says they were harassed, and they were scattered or abandoned.
They were similar to sheep without a shepherd.
That means they were vulnerable and alone. Without guidance. Without someone who knew the way.
And while Jesus was able to minister to some of them personally, there were many. Far more than His small group of disciples could reach and help.
People are still scattered and distressed. They need Jesus, the Good Shepherd. But the laborers are still few.
That’s why Jesus says a verse later that we should pray the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers.
Matthew 9:36-37 “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. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;”