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Gibbs, Jeffrey A. “Matthew 7:28-8:1: Narrative Conclusion to the Sermon." Matthew 1:1-11:1. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2006, pp. 398-401.
Gibbs notes that Matthew 7:28 marks the end of one "of Jesus' five large discourses in Matthew's Gospel" as it bears the same wording as 11:1, 13:53, 19:1, and 26:1 (Gibbs 2006, 398). The Sermon on the Mount has served as Jesus' call and instruction to his special disciples but also, through Matthew's presentation, to all disciples everywhere.
The crowds followed Jesus after this teaching. Gibbs points out that Jesus had acted as one who bore authority. The crowds saw that authority as well (Gibbs 2006, 399). Gibbs is clear, though, that Matthew does not affirm the crowds believe Jesus' message. Rather, they seem to believe that he speaks with authority (Gibbs 2006, 400). This set Jesus apart from the scribes. Gibbs sees the perceived authority of Jesus as the unifying feature for much of the material in Matthew 8-9. As Jesus acts upon the authority he claims as a dispenser of grace, people from the crowds believe his claims and become his restored and saved disciples.
Gibbs finally summarizes the Sermon on the Mount as a place where Jesus graciously speaks of salvation and blessing according to his promises (Gibbs 2006, 401). Gibbs sees that Jesus' ongoing work in the Church is very consistent with this beginning.