The journey of faith is often described as a path—a road that leads to eternal life. In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus paints a clear picture of two roads: the broad road that leads to destruction and the narrow way that leads to life. “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” This profound teaching encourages us to evaluate our journey, reminding us that the road less traveled, the narrow way, is the one illuminated by Christ, leading to eternal abundance.
The Narrow Path is Lit by Christ
Though narrow and challenging, this path is not dark. It is illuminated by the light of Christ. Many of us stumble and fall when walking along the wide road, where we run freely but without direction or purpose. We can become lost, unsure of where we made our missteps. On the narrow way, however, Christ shines light on every step, guiding us and allowing us to see exactly where we stand. As Psalms 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” When we focus on Christ, we can walk securely, knowing He will guide us through every twist and turn.
Strive to Enter the Narrow Gate
When asked whether only a few would be saved, Jesus responded, "Strive to enter through the narrow door" (Luke 13:24). This word, "strive," implies effort, discipline, and persistence. Different Bible translations emphasize this action: the KJV uses “strive,” while the NLT says “work hard,” and others say, “make every effort.” This is a call to active faith, not passive acceptance. Jesus tells us to persevere, seek, and make intentional choices to follow Him. The narrow gate is not one we stumble upon; it requires pursuit. We are not called to simply ask, but to seek diligently.
Jesus: The Gate and the Good Shepherd
In John 10:9, Jesus clarifies the mystery of the gate: “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.” He is both the shepherd who guides His sheep and the door through which we must enter to find eternal life. Jesus made this abundantly clear, using simple language that left no room for misunderstanding. He is the only way to salvation. No church, no works, no rituals—only Jesus.
We, as His sheep, are called to follow the Good Shepherd. And just as sheep must enter through the gate, we must humble ourselves before Christ, acknowledging Him as the only way to God the Father. "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6). The narrow gate is not a religious institution or a moral code—it is a person. Jesus Himself is the door, and through Him, we find life, hope, and rest.
Humbling Ourselves at the Gate
The imagery of a camel passing through the eye of a needle offers a powerful picture of humility. The rich young ruler who sought eternal life was instructed by Jesus to give up all his possessions (Matthew 19:21-24). Like the camel that had to kneel and be relieved of its burdens to pass through a small gate, we too must humble ourselves and shed the things that weigh us down. Pride, possessions, and earthly pursuits can keep us from entering into the fullness of God’s kingdom. As the Apostle Paul reminds us, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” (Hebrews 12:1).
We may think we need to come to Jesus with our lives perfectly in order, but He calls us to come as we are, burdened and broken. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Jesus doesn’t ask us to clean up before approaching Him. Just as we don’t clean ourselves before taking a shower, we are invited to come to Him, dirty and worn out, to find rest in His presence.
Running the Race with Endurance
Following the narrow path is not a sprint, but a marathon. As we run this race, we must lay aside our baggage—the sins, distractions, and burdens that slow us down. It’s not just the bad things that hinder us, but sometimes even good things, like dreams, jobs, or material possessions, can weigh us down if we hold them too tightly. The rich young ruler learned this the hard way; he left Jesus sorrowful because he was unwilling to part with his possessions.
To truly follow Christ, we must be willing to let go of everything that competes with Him for our hearts. The journey will require perseverance. But as we humble ourselves, shedding the weight of sin and self-reliance, we will find that the yoke of Christ is light. “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:30).
Entering into Abundant Life
Though the narrow way is difficult, it leads to abundant life—both now and in eternity. The world offers temporary pleasures on the wide road, but those who walk the narrow path find lasting joy in Christ. He is not only the way to eternal life but also the source of true rest and peace in this life. Jesus promises us that if we come to Him, we will find rest for our souls. When we let go of the things that weigh us down and trust Him to lead us through the narrow gate, we experience a freedom that the world cannot offer.
In conclusion, walking the narrow path requires faith, humility, and endurance. It’s not the easy road, but it’s the road that leads to life. As we strive to enter through the narrow gate, we must remember that it is Jesus Himself who is the door. Our striving is not in vain, for we follow the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for us. And as we run the race set before us, let us fix our eyes on Him, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
Scripture References:
- Matthew 7:13-14
- Psalms 119:105
- Luke 13:24
- John 10:9
- John 14:6
- Matthew 19:21-24
- Hebrews 12:1-2
- Matthew 11:28-30