THE STRAIT GATE
“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.” Matthew 7:13, 14
What does it mean to enter the “strait gate”? This word is different from the word straight, which is the opposite of crooked or curved. The word strait is sometimes defined as “narrow, close, or crowded by obstacles standing close about.” In geography, a strait is “a narrow pass, either in a mountain or in the ocean, between two continents or portions of land.” The “strait gate” and the narrow way are the only way to Heaven. The opposite of the “strait gate” is a wide, broad, and spacious gate and road.
Two things should be noted about these two gates and roads. The Bible makes it clear that the travelers on the broad way are many, while those on the narrow way are few. Also, the broad way leads to destruction while the narrow way leads to life. The “strait gate” and the narrow road are not the easiest and most convenient paths of life. There will always be obstacles and interferences, both from within and from without. Jesus is the only Way to Heaven; He is the “strait gate” and the narrow way. No one can get to the Father unless he goes through Christ. His way is not the easy way, nor is it the popular way. Things will always try to obstruct us from following Jesus. Friends and family may discourage us and our flesh will oppose us. Following Jesus is demanding. It requires self-denial and the surrender of our will.
There are many modern-day proponents of the broad way. They preach an inclusive gospel that allows for many ways to Heaven. These broad-way preachers make light of our message and accuse us of being narrow. They say that we are out of step with the times. Never be discouraged by those who attack the narrow way. Don’t be disheartened by the crowds on the broad way. The path of least resistance has never been the wisest road to travel. Ours is a road less traveled. It is the road that leads to life, both abundant life and eternal life. The “strait gate” and the narrow way will take us all the way to the streets of glory. The popular and convenient journey of the broad way and the wide gate will end with a bottomless pit. If you are on the right path, cheer up, faithful traveler.