Jesus contrasted two different “ways” that we could go – a broad way and a narrow way: “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:13-14). These are the only two options, and they lead to two very different destinations. However, we do have the option. We get to choose which way we will take.
If we want to follow the way “that leads to life,” we must follow the “narrow” way (Matthew 7:14). But what did Jesus mean when He said, “The way is narrow”? First, He meant that there would be difficulties and obstacles along the way. The New King James Version uses the word difficult in this verse to describe “the way.” We will discuss this idea more in the fourth lesson.
Second, by saying that “the way is narrow,” Jesus was explaining the reason why there would be “few” who would follow “the way” (Matthew 7:14). Even though the way that leads to life is open to everyone, not all will choose to follow this path. Jesus told Nicodemus of the universal love of God and the salvation that was available as a result: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Paul told Titus, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men” (Titus 2:11). However, even though God “loved the world” (John 3:16) and has brought “salvation to all men” (Titus 2:11), Jesus made it clear that most people will not be saved. Why? The way is narrow and so they choose not to follow that way.
The above post is an excerpt from the book, The Way: What it Means to Be a Disciple of Jesus by Andy Sochor. Follow the link to learn more about the book and purchase your copy today!
