Discussion Questions on Ian McConnell’s Message on Matthew 9:35-38

Joining Jesus in the Harvest

(Matt. 9:35-38 ESV) 35 And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38 therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

Missional Rhythm
1. Explain how you understand Jesus’ three-fold ministry of teaching, proclaiming the kingdom, and healing.
2. Do these establish a pattern for us and, if so, what would that look like in your everyday life?
Missional Motivation
1. Describe what Jesus saw when he looked at the crowds.
2. What do you see when you look at your neighborhood, the city, and the world you live in?
3. How did Jesus feel as he looked at the crowds?
4. Have you ever felt that way? If not, why do think you haven’t?
5. What is the relationship between seeing, feeling, and acting?
6. What more can you do about what you see in the world around you?
Missional Optimism
1. Why is it so striking that Jesus looks at the desperate crowds and talks about a plentiful harvest? Why should this give us optimism in evangelism?
2. What does it mean to “look at our own salvation experience as exceptional” and why is that a hindrance to bringing in the harvest?
3. What is the contrast between the harvest and the laborers, and how is it to be resolved?

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On September 10, 1970 I came to understand the great love of God for me, a sinner and a rebel. That evening I received God’s forgiveness and a new life through Jesus Christ, who died in my place and rose again to offer forgiveness and new life. I have been senior pastor for over 30 years planting two churches in Buckingham, PA and Queens, NY and serving two other churches in Brooklyn, NY and Roslyn, PA. I am currently the lead pastor at Grace Church of Philly.

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