Jesus' preaching of what is known as the "Sermon on the Mount", in a way presents a summary report of the ministry of Jesus. He goes up a mountain, which in the Scriptures is seen as a place of divine action and revelation. There, He sits down to teach, symbolising that He is a person of dignity who has the authority to set a high standard of moral wisdom. The authority of Jesus is demonstrated in two ways.

Firstly, Jesus teaches the true spirit of the Law in contrast to the oppressive manner of the Mosaic Law which is championed by the Pharisees. The way of Christ far surpasses the manner of living the Law. Secondly, Jesus is superior to Moses. Moses received the Decalogue from God on Mount Sinai. In the case of Jesus, He is God himself. He is the one who gives the New Law on the mountain.

Jesus, the Son of God, by His authority as the true teacher, reminds His followers that they are not only to practise the Law, but to do all in true and right spirit. It means they are not to "pick and choose" what they want to practise, but to imbibe Him. As His disciples, they will be abused and persecuted, but they are to trust in the Lord who provides their needs and equips them at all times.