9:35–38 From 9:35 through 10:42 we have Matthew’s second large collection of sayings. Verse 35 is virtually equivalent to 4:23, which introduced the previous collection, chapters 5–7 (since there were no chapter divisions in ancient manuscripts, writers used other methods to indicate internal structure). Once again Jesus’ itinerant ministry is described as teaching, preaching, and healing (v. 35).

As Jesus looked out on the surrounding crowds, he was deeply mo…