The Impossibility of the Sermon on the Mount

Matthew's focus as he recounts the teachings of Jesus is first of all, morality is about having a heart. Twice in this gospel Jesus cites Hosea 6, 6. I want mercy and not sacrifice. Both in chapter 9 and again in chapter 12. There is a morality that hardens, that makes one more severe toward others rather than making you in a vessel of grace.