Jesus preaches throughout the country. He went into large wealthy cities and into the poor, obscure villages. He preached and healed both rich and poor. He taught in the synagogues. He had compassion on them, but in a spiritual way. His concern was that they were ignorant with a lack of spiritual vision.
This would be a sad condition of those who are without Christ. Sheep when they have gone astray are helpless and exposed to danger. They are not capable of finding their own way. They need shepherds to bring them into the fold and give them direction and protection. When Jesus spoke of false shepherds, they not only led the sheep away from the fold but they also fleeced the flock. They didn’t feed them. They didn’t nourish them with the word of truth.
People obviously wanted the teaching that Jesus was giving them. They needed it, they desired it, and they went out of their way to get it. There were few teachers who were teaching the truth. Jesus sent out his disciples.
Work is to be done now. Are there enough laborers to do the work?
To just be left alone as sheep where they may be in danger from wolves was one thing, but to send them out among known wolves was something else. They could expect from this warning that they would be like a helpless sheep among a herd of ravenous wolves to be devoured and destroyed. But because He sends them forth, He will protect them. Be aware of the dangers but be meek and mild.
As we reflect on the Scripture readings for today, let's take to heart the words of the Lord of the Harvest, let's go out as workers into His harvest field!
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