The Bible teaches that sowing and reaping refers to the spiritual principle of sharing the Gospel and seeing others come to faith, as illustrated in John 4:35-39.
In John 4:35-39, Jesus emphasizes the importance of sowing and reaping, specifically in relation to the salvation of souls. The metaphor of sowing and reaping illustrates that while some plant seeds of truth (sowing), others will come along and reap the spiritual harvest of faith. Christ, through the Holy Spirit, prepares people's hearts to receive the Gospel. This passage encourages believers to actively participate in proclaiming the Gospel, knowing that, ultimately, it is God who gives the increase. Through this work, believers engage in the mission that complements God's sovereign work of salvation.
Scripture References:
John 4:35-39, Galatians 6:7, Luke 6:38, Proverbs 18:24, Galatians 6:7-8, Matthew 13
Commentary