Big Idea: Matthew encourages his readers to trust in Jesus, as he brings the power of God’s kingdom to bear upon human sickness and suffering, both to Israel and as a foreshadowing of Gentile inclusion.

Understanding the Text

As Matthew’s earlier summary of Jesus’ teaching (4:23–25) indicates, Jesus’ messianic ministry is characterized by preaching (4:17), teaching (5:1–7:29), and healing (8:1–9:38). This section of Matthew introduces Jesus’ healing and miraculous ministry in Galilee, accentuating themes of Jesus’ authority, the importance of faith for discipleship, and Gentile inclusion in the coming kingdom of God. Jesus’ authority and corresponding faith in Jesus will be themes that pervade chapters 8–9. Matthew also cites from Isaiah’s Servant Songs (Isa. 42:1–4; 49:1–6; 50:4–9; 52:1…