Outsiders on the Inside (Matthew 8:1-17)

Matthew is writing a Gospel not just to confirm that Christ is the Messiah, but to call people to embrace the true Messiah in faith.  So, is this a Gospel that is merely rebuking the Israelites for not embracing their God?  Is this a Gospel that is excessive for one race?  Who can be an insider?

A Fulfilling Mission (Matthew 5:17-20)

Jesus enters history to fulfill the law and the prophets.  Christ summarizes his mission as the messiah who has entered history fulfill rather than to abolish.  Why is this important?  What does this definition of his mission tell us about Jesus living up to His name?