The Narrow Gate

Matthew 7:13

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.”

Lord Jesus contrasts the “narrow gate”—which means restricted, compressed, or difficult to pass through—with the “wide gate” which is spacious, accommodating, and easy to enter. Many choose the broad way because it requires no sacrifice, no commitment, and no obedience to God. Though popular, it leads to destruction, ruin, and eternal loss.

The narrow gate, however, is not just a set of rules or religious discipline—it is a person: Jesus Christ Himself. In John 10:9, He declares, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved.” Salvation is exclusive to those who enter through Christ by faith. This way is not easy; it demands repentance, surrender, and endurance. It is a path of self-denial (Luke 9:23) and obedience (John 14:15), but it is the only way that leads to eternal life.

Why do many choose the broad path? Because it appeals to the flesh—it allows for compromise, sin, and worldly pleasures. But Lord Jesus warns that the end of that path is destruction. The narrow way may seem difficult, but it leads to true, abundant, and eternal life (John 10:10).

Today, let’s reflect and think, which path are we on? Are we following the crowd through the wide gate, or are we walking the narrow way with Christ? The easy road leads to death, but the hard road leads to glory. Let us choose the narrow gate—choose Jesus.