Jesus’ Urgent Invitation

Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” 

The first word of today’s text is “Enter!”  That urgent invitation, you could even say command, is proclaimed by Christ. The imagery He invokes is vivid. There are two gates, two roads, and two destinies. The broad thoroughfare accommodates every idol and indulgence. No repentance required on that path. No cross to carry down that lane. Don’t let that fool you because the ease of that road is false and its destination is fatal. The other way, the way of Jesus is the narrow gate, and that way demands humility and faith. Self-righteousness is squeezed out along with worldly applause. His way is narrow because that path is shaped by the contours of salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. This is the good news of Jesus Christ.  

Do not make the mistake of confusing narrowness with meanness. The gate stands open, purchased by Jesus’ blood, wide enough for any repentant sinner. What makes the way difficult is our own lingering love for comfort and crowd approval. Ask yourself: “Have I actually entered, or am I merely admiring the entrance from the broad road?” Authentic faith produces evidence. That would be obedience, growing holiness, love for the brethren, especially those within your own church. The issue is direction, not perfection.  Though the journey is steep, Christ walks with His people, empowering them by His Spirit. Take the time right now to examine your direction. If you’re on the wide road, step through the narrow gate and onto the narrow way, laying aside every weight, confident that the hard road ends in unending life and joy. If you’ve been on the narrow way but have gotten off into bypath meadow, leave that detour and return to the narrow way. Follow Jesus all the way home.