<p>9:8&nbsp;<em>But when the crowds saw it</em>- A word used about 150 times in the Gospel records. The crowds were a major feature of the Lord's ministry, and they must have been a great trial to Him. We sense Him seeking to avoid them, to stop them gathering, and yet being so compassionate towards them, despite their often superficial grasp of His works and message. It makes an interesting exercise to consider whether on balance the Gospel writers take a positive view of the crowds or not. John seems to be more negative about them, whereas Matthew seems to emphasize their wonder, naivety, weak understanding and fickleness. But all the Gospels seem to present a clear pyramid structure beginning with Jesus, then an inner circle of disciples, then the twelve, then the crowds, and then the unbelieving, aggressive Jewish leadership. There are certainly similarities with Moses on Sinai and in his relationship with Israel, but they cannot be pushed too precisely. The crowd here in Mt. 9:8 is contrasted favourably with the Scribes- the opening &quot;But...&quot; suggests that they marvelled at the Lord's authority, whereas some of the Scribes became bitterly jealous.</p>
<p><em>They were afraid and glorified God, who had given such authority to men</em>- See on 9:6&nbsp;<em>Son of Man</em>. There may be significance in the plural&nbsp;<em>men</em>&nbsp;rather than&nbsp;<em>a man</em>. They marvelled that one of them could have such power to forgive and remove the consequences of sin. It is all an essay in the Lord's evident humanity.</p>