Matthew 7:13-14

Matthew 7:13-14
Look carefully at this text. You will notice a series of alternatives. In each case the alternatives are choices between one of two. In the old game show, Let’s Make a Deal, contestants could choose between what was behind door number one, door number two, or door number three. Jesus does not give three alternatives. There are only two. Notice in this text that there are two gates, two ways, two destinies, and two groups of people – one group “few” and the other group “many.” Between these two groups all of humanity is pictured. No one is left out. Every person passes through one of two gates, travels one of two ways, and will eventually arrive at one of two destinations.Jesus’ command is to “enter” by the narrow gate, which implies that effort is required. The fact that Jesus uses the word “narrow” implies that it is not easily entered. The gate does not allow just anyone to come in. A person must strip himself of sin and worldly entanglements in order to enter. A narrow gate makes heaven more attractive because a wider gate would let in those who are evil. But not only is the gate narrow, the way is difficult. The road to heaven is not a big wide interstate allowing the traveler to use cruise control. The road to heaven is challenging and filled with sacrifices.

We must be impressed with the end of each journey. One can take a wide gate and a broad way, but the end is restrictive; the end is destruction. Take the easy way, and the end will be hard. The contrast is that one can enter the narrow gate and travel the difficult road, but the end is wide open; the end is eternal life. The man who is only looking at the gate and the road without seeing what is ahead, is a fool.

Finally, notice the words “few” and “many.” Mankind has an inexplicable tendency of believing that the majority is right. Sometimes they are. But in spiritual matters the majority is wrong. Most do not want to take the more difficult path. Most do not want to strictly follow the Bible or deny themselves the pleasures of sin. Most will not be saved. Only the few will “find it.”
Berry Kercheville