ACC ~ Matthew 5 v2

ACCORDING TO THEIR READINESS TO HEAR

CHRYSOSTOM: And for what reason is the clause added, “He opened his mouth”? To inform you that in his very silence he gave instruction, and not only when he spoke. At one time he taught by “opening his mouth,” while at another by the works that he did. [1] But when you hear that he taught them, do not think of him as discussing matters with his disciples only, but rather with the entire group through his teaching to them. For since the crowd was just like any crowd always is, including as it did those who live on a very low level, he withdrew the group of his disciples and addressed his teaching to them, but in his conversation with them he also provided for the rest, who were at this point very far from being ready to hear his sayings on self-denial without being offended. THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 15.1. [2]

[1] His speech was not only through words but also actions.

[2] PG 57:223; cf. NPNF 1 10:91**. The general public was not yet ready to discern the meaning of Jesus’ teaching. Later they will be taught by the disciples.