Matthew 7:13

Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.

Study Bible

Enter through the narrow gate
This phrase serves as a direct command from Jesus, urging His followers to make a deliberate choice. The Greek word for "enter" (εἰσέρχομαι, eiserchomai) implies an action that requires effort and decision. The "narrow gate" symbolizes the path of righteousness and obedience to God's will. In the historical context of ancient cities, gates were often narrow and required intentionality to pass through, contrasting with the wide, easily accessible gates that led to destruction. This imagery emphasizes the need for discernment and commitment in the Christian walk.

For wide is the gate
The "wide gate" represents the path of least resistance, one that is easy to find and enter. The Greek word for "wide" (πλατύς, platys) suggests something broad and spacious, indicating a path that accommodates many. This path is alluring because it requires no sacrifice or discipline, appealing to the natural human inclination towards comfort and self-indulgence. Historically, wide gates in cities were used for trade and commerce, symbolizing worldly pursuits and distractions that lead away from God.

and broad is the way
The "broad way" further illustrates the ease and popularity of the path leading away from God. The Greek word for "broad" (εὐρύχωρος, euruchoros) conveys a sense of spaciousness and freedom, yet it is a deceptive freedom that ultimately leads to bondage. This path is filled with temptations and moral compromises, reflecting the cultural and societal norms that often contradict biblical principles. The broad way is a warning against conforming to the world rather than being transformed by the renewal of the mind (Romans 12:2).

that leads to destruction
The end of the broad way is "destruction" (ἀπώλεια, apōleia), a term that signifies ruin and loss. This is not merely physical death but eternal separation from God. The historical and scriptural context underscores the gravity of this warning, as Jesus frequently spoke of the consequences of sin and the reality of hell. The destruction is a result of choosing the easy, self-centered path over the challenging, Christ-centered one.

and many enter through it
The phrase "many enter through it" highlights the tragic reality that the majority choose the path of destruction. The Greek word for "many" (πολύς, polys) indicates a large number, reflecting the widespread nature of sin and rebellion against God. This serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual battle for souls and the importance of evangelism and discipleship. The historical context of Jesus' ministry shows His compassion for the lost and His desire for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, delivering the Sermon on the Mount, which is a collection of teachings and sayings of Jesus.

2. The Narrow Gate
Symbolizes the path of righteousness and obedience to God's will, which leads to eternal life.

3. The Wide Gate
Represents the path of sin and disobedience, leading to destruction and separation from God.

4. The Way
Refers to the journey or lifestyle one chooses, either towards life or destruction.

5. The Sermon on the Mount
The context in which this teaching is given, encompassing Matthew chapters 5-7, where Jesus outlines the principles of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Teaching Points

The Call to Discernment
Jesus calls us to discern between the two paths. The narrow gate requires intentionality and discernment, as it is not the obvious or popular choice.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following the narrow path involves sacrifice and commitment. It may not be easy, but it leads to eternal life and fulfillment in Christ.

The Danger of Conformity
The broad way is appealing because it is easy and popular. However, it leads to destruction. Christians are called to resist conforming to the world.

The Importance of Daily Choices
Every decision we make can lead us closer to the narrow path or the broad way. Daily choices reflect our commitment to Christ.

The Role of Community
Walking the narrow path is challenging, but we are not alone. The Christian community provides support and accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some practical ways you can ensure you are entering through the narrow gate in your daily life?

2. How does understanding the original Greek word for "narrow" (stenos) as "constricted" or "difficult" impact your view of the Christian journey?

3. In what ways can the Christian community help you stay on the narrow path, and how can you contribute to others' journeys?

4. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to take the broad way. What scripture or principle helped you choose the narrow path instead?

5. How can the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount guide you in making choices that align with the narrow path?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 14:12
This verse highlights the deceptive nature of the path that seems right to a person but ultimately leads to death, paralleling the broad way leading to destruction.

John 10:9
Jesus describes Himself as the gate, emphasizing that entering through Him leads to salvation, aligning with the concept of the narrow gate.

Luke 13:24
Jesus urges striving to enter through the narrow door, reinforcing the idea of effort and intentionality in choosing the path of life.

Psalm 1:6
Contrasts the way of the righteous with the way of the wicked, similar to the narrow and broad paths.

Deuteronomy 30:19
God sets before His people life and death, blessing and curse, urging them to choose life, akin to choosing the narrow path.