THE most important instructions ever given to mankind are those contained in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5—7). Mary Baker Eddy, in her book "Retrospection and Introspection," refers to it as "the diamond sermon," and goes on to state (p. 91): "No purer and more exalted teachings ever fell upon human ears than those contained in what is commonly known as the Sermon on the Mount,— though this name has been given it by compilers and translators of the Bible, and not by the Master himself or by the Scripture authors. Indeed, this title really indicates more the Master's mood, than the material locality."
In this sermon, Christ Jesus set forth in simple and direct language the way his disciples should think in connection with the vital details of everyday living. Nothing of importance is lacking, for in his message he covered such subjects as supply, food, raiment, success, marriage, charity, obedience, human relationships, guidance, brotherly love, prayer, and worship. Most important of all, he stressed man's relationship with God in his statement (Matt. 5:48), "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect."
At several points in his sermon, the Master stated exactly what the Mosaic law is in regard to a certain rule of conduct, and then he gave to the law a higher and more spiritual interpretation. In this way the disciples were able to see clearly that the spirit as well as the letter of the law must be fulfilled.
