Matthew 9:35-10:1
Chapter 9
35
Narrative Summary of Jesus’ Activity
Jesus traveled through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues and announcing the good news of the kingdom; he also healed every sickness and disease.36
Jesus’ Compassion
When he saw the crowds, he was filled with compassion, for they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.
37
Then he said to his disciples:
“The harvest is abundant, but the workers are only a few.
38
Ask the master of the harvest to send workers to gather his harvest.”
Chapter 10
1
The Twelve
Jesus called his Twelve disciples to him and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to drive them out and to heal every disease and sickness.
Commentaries
Narrative Summary of Jesus’ Activity – Jesus’ Compassion.
These four verses serve as an interlude, closing one section and opening another. Jesus, the Messiah, has announced the beginning of God’s reign with words and actions. His first sermon, the Sermon on the Mount, has been validated through signs and miracles. The success of his power to heal people from all kinds of diseases and ailments has drawn a large crowd of the poor and needy. This sets the stage for the next section: the missionary sending of the Twelve, close followers who will learn from Jesus the scope of the mission, how to carry it out, and God’s initiative, signaled by his call.
The Twelve.
Twelve are chosen, like the tribes of Israel (19:28), and now symbolize the universality of the new people of God. The title of apostles, meaning ‘sent ones,’ is hinted at. They are led by Simon, who has a new name in ministry: Peter. They come from diverse backgrounds and mindsets… But amid them is Jesus, the unifying center. To this first missionary team, the Master will deliver his second discourse, focusing on their mission.