The commentary on the Sermon on the Mount is usually classified among the exegetical writings of the Church Father. It was created in 393, after Augustine was ordained as a priest in Hippo at the urging of the church community. With the interpretation of these three pericopes, the author aimed to familiarize himself with the Holy Scriptures and prepare for his pastoral ministry. The radicality and uncompromising nature of Jesus' sermon captivated him, perhaps because, as Augustine states at the beginning of his work, it contains the perfect norms for a Christian way of life—an ethics that takes its measure from the perfection of Christ. The primary commandment of lived love for God and neighbor has always been heard and contemplated anew—just as the crowd marveled at Jesus' teaching back then and the community of Hippo reflected on the words of their pastor, they continue to resonate with us today, each time with their own unique emphasis.