"... Assuming a narrative and transitional introduction (Matthew 9:36−10:5) and conclusion (Matthew 11:1), Hagner identifies the natural breaks in the mission discourse as follows: Matthew 10:5−15, 16−23, 24−25, 26−31, 32−33, 34−39 and 40−42. Davies and Allison identify the same breaks, albeit via three major sections (Matthew 10:5−25, 26−31, 32−42), with each section viewed as triadic (thus 5-15, 16−23 and 24−25; 26−31 with its three arguments, and then 32−33, 34−39, 40−42). France divides the discourse into three sections, namely Matthew 10:5−15, 16−23 and 24−42. The breaks between Matthew 10:15 and 16 as well as between verse 23 and 24 need no elaboration. The statements in Matthew 10:24−25 explain why the disciples can expect persecution – leading to three encouragements not to fear (verses 26−31) and a reminder why it is imperative that they hold firmly to their confession (verses 32−33). The allusion to Micah 7:6 in Matthew 10:21 and its further quotation in 10:35−36 provide a basis for viewing 10:16−23 and 10:34−39 as chiastic parallels. The reception or rejection of the messengers of the King, first mentioned in Matthew 10:11−15, is used to conclude this mission discourse (10:40−42) ..."