1. Since tomorrow is Labor Day, perhaps this is a good time for us to be reminded that "Jesus needs laborers." 2.Let us begin our study by pointing out that . . .
Discussion:
I.JESUS NEEDED LABORERS DURING HIS MINISTRY
A.According to Luke 19:10, Jesus came to fulfill a special mission. B.Jesus fulfilled His mission by participating in the activities listed in Matthew 9:35. 1.He "went about all the cities and villages." 2.As He did so, He took advantage of opportunities to teach in the synagogues, to preach the Gospel, and to heal all sicknesses and diseases. C.Several statements indicate that Jesus could not reach everyone by Himself. 1.(Matthew 9:36) When He observed the multitudes He saw people in need. 2.(vs.37-38) He spoke to His disciples about the situation. a.(vs.37) He first talked to them about the size of the harvest and the number of laborers available. b.(vs.38) He told them to pray about the situation. 3.The fact that Jesus could not reach everyone by Himself indicates that He needed laborers to help Him in seeking and saving those who were lost. D.Jesus selected laborers to help Him fulfill His mission. 1.He first selected the apostles and sent them on the limited commission (Matthew 10:1-8), and they enjoyed great success (Luke 9:10). 2.He also appointed the 70 and sent them out (Luke 10:1-3, 8-9), and they enjoyed great success (vs.17). E.We have seen from these verses that Jesus needed laborers during His ministry to help Him fulfill His mission. F.This information should help us to understand why . . .
II.JESUS NEEDS LABORERS TODAY
A.Jesus needs laborers today because: 1.He still wants to save those who are lost (2 Peter 3:9) 2.an abundant harvest still exists (John 4:35) 3.God will still give the increase when His children plant the seed and water it (1 Corinthians 3:6). B.Let us consider 6 guidelines for the Lord's laborers. 1.First, as we labor for the Lord, let us remain humble (Luke 17:10). 2.Second, as we labor for the Lord, let us do so for the right reward (John 6:27). 3.Third, as we labor for the Lord, let us remember that each person will be judged according to his own work (1 Corinthians 3:8b). 4.Fourth, as we labor for the Lord, let us remember that "we are laborers together with God" (1 Corinthians 3:9). 5.Fifth, as we labor for the Lord, let us remember that He is aware of the work we do for Him (Hebrews 6:10). 6.Sixth, as we labor for the Lord, let us remember that heaven is a place where each faithful child of God will rest from his own labors (Revelation 14:13).
Conclusion:
1.Jesus has always needed laborers to help Him in seeking and saving those who are lost. 2.Are you doing what you can to lead someone to Him?