NARROW GATE

“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.” (Matthew 7:13-14, NIV)
In these two verses, Jesus presents us with a choice—two gates, two roads, and two destinations. It is a contrast between two ways of living. One is easy, wide, and more people use it, but it leads to destruction. The other is narrow, difficult, and less people use it, yet it leads to life. Jesus is teaching us about the path of life and the nature of true discipleship.
1. The Wide Gate and the Broad Road
The first image Jesus presents is of a wide gate leading to a broad road, one that many choose to walk. This broad road is inviting, spacious, and full of options. It requires little effort and allows for all kinds of choices and lifestyles. On this road, people can carry their baggage of sin, pride, and self-will without any worry.
But what does Jesus say about this road? He warns that it leads to destruction. This is a sobering reminder that not all paths lead to God. The broad road represents a life lived without regard for God’s will or His ways. It is a life lived according to worldly values, where moral boundaries are flexible, and personal gratification is the highest goal.
Many choose this road because it appears easier and more accommodating. In our modern world, this broad road is the path of moral relativism, where truth is subjective, and faith in God is seen as unnecessary or even restrictive. But Jesus, in His love for us, warns that the end of this road is not freedom but destruction—separation from God and the loss of eternal life.
2. The Narrow Gate and the Hard Road
In contrast, Jesus calls us to enter through the narrow gate. This gate is small, and the road beyond it is narrow. What does this mean? The narrow gate represents Jesus Himself. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” To enter through the narrow gate is to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, to trust in Him for salvation, and to follow Him with all our hearts.
But Jesus also describes the road that follows the narrow gate as hard. It is a path of self-denial, obedience, and submission to God’s will. It is a road where we must let go of sin, pride, and selfish ambition. It is a road that requires faithfulness in the face of trials and perseverance in the face of opposition.
This road is narrow not because God wants to make it difficult for us but because it requires commitment and discipline. It is a road of discipleship, where we grow in holiness and love for God and others. It may not be the popular road, but it is the one that leads to life—abundant life now and eternal life with God.
3. Few Find It, But It Is Worth It
Jesus also makes a startling observation: “Only a few find it.” The narrow road is not the road most traveled. It can feel lonely at times. It requires us to go against the current of the world’s values and to live by faith, not by sight. But it is the road that leads to true life.
As Christians, we are called to walk this road in faith, trusting that God’s way is always best, even when it seems hard. The life that Jesus offers is not simply about rules and restrictions; it is about a relationship with Him. The narrow road is the path of freedom from sin, peace in our hearts, and the joy of walking with our Creator. And though the journey may be difficult, the destination is glorious.
4. Choosing the Narrow Road Every Day
The choice between the narrow and broad roads is not a one-time decision; it is a daily choice. Each day, we are faced with temptations to take the easier path, to compromise our faith, or to seek comfort over commitment. But Jesus calls us to choose the narrow road every day, to walk closely with Him, and to follow His example of love, humility, and obedience.
The narrow road may be hard, but we do not walk it alone. Jesus Himself is with us, guiding us, strengthening us, and encouraging us. And the reward is great—eternal life in the presence of God.

Jesus’ message in Matthew 7:13-14 is clear: the road to life is narrow, and few choose to walk it, but it is the only road that leads to true and lasting joy. The wide and easy road may seem attractive, but it leads to destruction.
Let us, therefore, enter through the narrow gate. Let us commit ourselves to walking the narrow road, no matter the cost, because the life that Jesus offers is worth every sacrifice. Choose the narrow path, and you will find the peace, hope, and eternal life that only God can give.Amen.