Similar to previous encyclicals, in Dilexit nos Pope Francis criticises modern phenomena, such as individualism, social and economic disparities, and "uses of technology that threaten our humanity", and calls for rediscovery of "heart" as a way towards unity, peace, and reconciliation in the modern era.

[1][3] The encyclical has been described as less directly focused on political or social issues and more spiritual[4] than its predecessors, Laudato Si' and Fratelli Tutti.

However, Archbishop Bruno Forte of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, who introduced the encyclical at a press conference, described it as relevant to the "dramatic challenges of the present time".

[3] In a footnote,[1] Pope Francis cites as inspiration the unpublished writings of Diego Fares SJ, an Argentine Jesuit for whom Francis served as rector, formator, and spiritual director.

[6] There are five sections to the encyclical: initially, a philosophical and theological survey of "the heart", followed by reflections on Jesus' actions and words of love, and an account of the theological meaning of Sacred Heart devotion.