Enter you in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: |
Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leads unto life, and few there be that find it. |
The Strait Gate, the Narrow Way is Christ Jesus and only Christ Jesus.
Anyone who tries to come through that gate with the baggage of self-righteousness will not fit through the opening.
When Jesus spoke these words He knew there would be few that would receive Him as Messiah - the end of the Law for righteousness. The pharisees and their followers were too invested in legalism.
Today, Satan is still working in the hearts of men to blind them to this Truth :
The orthodox Jew still clings to the Law for righteousness and acceptance by God. He does not even recognize the Strait Gate, much less try to enter it.
The legalistic Christian tries to enter the Strait Gate, the Narrow Way but does so hindered by doubts of the sufficiency of Grace, clothed in the filthy rags of self-righteousness.
God did not need mankind to perfect the created universe.
God did not need mankind to perfect the created plan of salvation - Grace.
To Christ Jesus be all praise and glory and honour both now and forever, amen!
Lay aside your baggage, strip down and enter into eternal, abundant life by Christ Jesus the Saviour!
Jesus said He is the way.
But if you want to think about moving through life on some path, consider this statement:
And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of the Lord. |
So, the Incarnate Word is telling us that the Written Word is essential for life.
I couple this statement with where Jesus offers life and abundant life - making a distinction.
Those who continue in His Words experience Abundant Life.
Those who only believe in His provision for Eternal Life receive just that and no more.
The Way includes Abundant Life as well as Eternal Life.
So the Narrow Way may be understood as continuing in His Word toward discipleship.