August 27

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” —MATTHEW 7:13-14

Life is like a road. We are all going somewhere, but the big issue is in knowing where we are going. There are only two possibilities Jesus spoke of: a broad road and a narrow road. The broad road has a wide gate and plenty of company, but has a major problem in that it leads to destruction. The narrow road has a small gate and with only a few people on it, but it leads to life.

This passage is often used evangelically to good effect; the broad way being that of people outside of Christ, and the narrow way being the Christian life. However, the context in which Jesus said this does not suggest this as an accurate interpretation. Though many heard the Sermon on the Mount which was actually spoken to Jesus’ disciples, it can be addressed to every believer. It warns of the danger of a broad road, leading to destruction, on which a Christian may go. It is not the eternal destruction of the soul, but the destruction of all that might otherwise have been the fruit of their lives. 

Paul tells us, “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work” (1 Corinthians 3:11-13). This is the end of the broad road of which Jesus warns.

The broad road appears more attractive, and the narrow road is not at all a popular concept. Most people would like to be considered ‘broad’ and tolerant, as it suggests a mark of maturity. However, to be ‘narrow’ is to be virtuous, because it is to be aiming at a godly target and going for it. Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32). 

The broad road takes down the perimeter fences of Christianity, and invites us to live pretty much as we please, but with many outside influences that will ultimately lead to destruction in this life. It is on the narrow road, confining our interests to those of Jesus Christ that we find real freedom, real contentment, real purpose and real life.

PRAYER: Lord, I have experienced and know how easy it is to travel the broad road. Be my strength and lead me on the narrow road. Thank You, Lord.

TO REFLECT UPON: Am I aiming for the narrow gate?