Reaching the Multitudes

Pastor Keith Hassell

Foundation Scripture: Matthew 9:35-10:1

I. We must have a compassion for the multitudes.

A. They are weary (i.e. “harassed” and “troubled”)

B. They are scattered (not in a fold, i.e. “family”)

C. They are like sheep without a shepherd (no leaders)

II. We must acknowledge that we cannot do it alone.

A. The harvest of souls is plentiful.

B. The laborers (shepherds, pastors) are few.

C. Not even Jesus could meet the needs alone in His humanity.

D. Jesus did not use this as an excuse to do nothing, but as a reason to take action.

III. Raise up leaders.

A. Purpose to reach the multitudes.

1. We must stop ignoring the multitudes and reach the multitudes.

2. Its not about leaders, its about reaching the multitudes.

B. Pray for more laborers (i.e. shepherd leaders)

1. The harvest is God’s business. We are working with Him. He cares more about leaders than we do.

C. Preach the good news (new leaders will come from the harvest fields)

D. Prepare leaders. (Jesus had His twelve disciples who He mentored)

1. Leaders will come from those who are being discipled.

2. Who are we discipling right now?

E. Plant leaders.

1. Jesus delegated authority to His disciples.

2. Jesus gave them power.

3. Jesus sent them out as an extension of His ministry.