Matthew 7:13
“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat”
Context:The verse is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, where He teaches His disciples and the multitudes about various aspects of Kingdom living and righteousness. In this specific verse, Jesus is speaking about the two different paths people can choose to follow.
The Strait Gate:Jesus urges His listeners to enter through the strait gate. The term “strait” means narrow or constricted. This gate represents the path of righteousness and following Jesus. It signifies the way of salvation and eternal life. Jesus Himself is the gate (John 10:9), and He is the only way to the Father (John 14:6).
The Wide Gate:Jesus contrasts the strait gate with the wide gate, which leads to destruction. The wide gate represents the path of sin and worldliness. It symbolizes the easy, popular, and broad way that leads people away from God and toward spiritual ruin. Many people choose this path because it allows them to pursue their own desires and live without accountability to God’s commands.
The Broad Way:Jesus further emphasizes that the way leading to destruction is broad. It accommodates various lifestyles, beliefs, and choices. The broad way may seem appealing and inclusive, but its ultimate destination is destruction. It caters to self-centeredness, worldly pleasures, and moral relativism, which ultimately leads to spiritual death.
Many Enter:Jesus points out that many people choose the wide gate and the broad way. It’s a sobering reminder that the majority of people may not follow the path of righteousness and salvation. The popularity of the broad way doesn’t make it the right or correct path. In fact, the Bible often highlights the remnant, a faithful few who choose the strait gate and walk in obedience to God’s Word.
Application:This verse prompts us to reflect on our own lives and the choices we make. It challenges us to consider whether we are walking on the narrow path of righteousness or drifting toward the wide path of destruction. It reminds us that following Jesus requires making conscious decisions to deny our selfish desires, take up our cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). It encourages us to seek the Lord, enter through the strait gate, and walk in obedience to His Word.
