Jesus' teaching on the mount - traditionally called Sermon of the Mount - is a central part of St. Matthew's Gospel. In its entire context Jesus is teacher, but also eschatological judge and king. Thus the Sermon of the Mount can be understood as governmental programme of the messiah Jesus. It is supposed to be set into practice by Jesus' followers, by the religious community, but surpasses this intentionally. At the end of the gospel all "peoples" are included: not only Israel but the peoples are addressed by Jesus' teaching. Accordingly Jesus proves to be someone who doesn't abolish or overbid the law, but speaks as an interpreter of the Tora. His declarations lie fully within Judaism.This interpretation of the Sermon of the Mount isn't only aimed at theologians but adds to making Jesus teachings on the mount freshly available to a broad and interested audience.

Prof. Wengst teaches New Testament and Judaism studies at the University of Bochum.