What challenges might we face when choosing the "difficult road" mentioned in Matthew 7:14?

The Narrow Gate and Difficult Road

“Small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:14)

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Why the Road Is Difficult

• Counter-cultural direction (1 John 2:15-17)

• Flesh versus Spirit tension (Galatians 5:17)

• Ongoing spiritual opposition (1 Peter 5:8)

• Fewer companions—“only a few” choose it

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Challenges From Outside

• Social ridicule and hostility (John 15:18)

• Persecution in varied forms (2 Timothy 3:12)

• Cultural compromise disguised as progress (Romans 12:2)

• Family misunderstanding and division (Matthew 10:34-36)

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Challenges From Within

• Lingering sin patterns (Hebrews 12:1)

• Doubt and discouragement (1 Kings 19)

• Craving instant gratification (Luke 9:23)

• Fear of missing out (Psalm 73)

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Challenges From the Enemy

• False teaching that widens the gate (2 Peter 2:1)

• Accusation and condemnation (Revelation 12:10)

• Spiritual fatigue requiring the armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-13)

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The Cost Versus the Prize

• Daily cross-bearing now (Luke 14:27)

• “Light and momentary” afflictions yielding eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17)

• Jesus endured for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2)

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Staying the Course

• Fix eyes on Christ (Hebrews 12:2-3)

• Rely on the Spirit’s power (Romans 8:13-14)

• Walk in fellowship with the few (Hebrews 10:24-25)

• Feed on Scripture—our lamp for the narrow way (Psalm 119:105)