Lesson 21 – The Narrow and Wide Gates

Matthew 7:13-14

“Enter through the narrow gate.  For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.  But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. 

In these verses, Jesus uses the metaphor of two gates and two roads to illustrate the choices people face in life. He encourages his listeners to enter through the narrow gate, which represents the path of righteousness and following God's ways. This gate leads to life and salvation. However, Jesus warns that the wide gate and broad road are enticing but ultimately lead to destruction.

The wide gate symbolizes the path of worldly pursuits, sin, and self-centeredness. Many people choose this path because it offers immediate gratification and seems easier to follow. However, Jesus emphasizes that this path leads to destruction, separation from God, and eternal consequences.

On the other hand, the narrow gate represents the path of discipleship, obedience to God's commands, and a life devoted to following Jesus. This path may be challenging and require sacrifice, but it leads to true life and eternal salvation.

Jesus points out that only a few find the narrow gate and choose to walk on the narrow road. This highlights the counter-cultural nature of the Christian journey and the importance of making intentional choices aligned with God's will.

These verses serve as a reminder to seek the path of righteousness, to choose the narrow gate, and to live according to God's teachings rather than following the crowd. They urge individuals to consider the eternal consequences of their choices and the significance of finding the true path that leads to life.