In this famous pericope, two traditional sayings, a thanksgiving from Q and an invitation from M, have been amalgamated. By uncovering the associations and origins of the distinctive language here, Celia Deutsch reconstructs the function of the unit for Matthew's Messianic Jewish community. What she wants to affirm is that revelation occurs in the context of discipleship. Using a variety of theological constructs she identifies Jesus as a sage who gives eschatological instructions and reinterprets the Torah.

Celia M. Deutsch teaches biblical studies and early Christianity at Barnard College and Columbia University in New York.