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 KJV
Context and Charge:
As always, Jesus constantly speaks. His Word has something to say about all facets of life. Considering the time that has passed since these words began to be translated, is it not amazing how relevant and applicable the Word of God has been? All through the years, with dispensations and generations constantly changing, the Word of God is that trustworthy anchor, providing stability and consistency through all the change. One of the things that has remained consistent in the centuries of change is ACCESS. God has never introduced any other name or any other way to us. The Bible constantly admonishes us to note the way, and to follow in it. As we also know, every way laid down or referred to by God in His word has eternal destination and consequences. God has made that clear.
He also tells us what is the best way to go, if we want to end up with Him. As He does not force Himself on anyone, He gives us the full picture of all the ways available. There are only two, as God lays them out. I don't get a third option of sitting on the fence, as there is none. It is either I take the strait gate or the wide gate. There is a reason each is described in this way. The strait gate comes with restrictions. It was not designed for careless people, who would not take note of their actions. You have to take a conscious and deliberate decision to stay on that strait way. It is not a way that is popular, because its demands go against all that the natural man craves. I cannot hang around the strait gate and still be comfortable around events and activities that belong to the wide gate.
Conviction and Conclusion:
The wide gate is attractive. It does not have huge expectations, as it needs as many people as possible to subscribe to it. It will not place restrictions on the path of people, and so many people who want to live as they please are attracted to this gate. The gate is wide because it must accommodate all sorts of people, and it is unfortunate but not unexpected that many people are on it. The issue is the end of these ways. Should I sacrifice my eternity because of temporary comfort and convenience? Would I enjoy all that the wide gate offers, for just a little while, at the expense of that which has no end? Remember, the eternal has to be the focus; this temporary world cannot give you anything that lasts forever. If it is popular, please check and confirm that it is also eternal. God's time of favour is here.
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