The Two Gates/Paths

One of the more sobering teachings of Jesus is found in Matthew 7:13–14:

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”

This passage is part of the Sermon on the Mount—a moment where Jesus wasn’t speaking to the religious elite but to everyday people who had gathered to hear the voice of God. And here, He drops a profound truth: not everyone will follow Him. In fact, most won’t.

The Wide Gate: The Way of the Many

Jesus describes the first road as wide and easy. It’s the path of least resistance, one that requires little reflection, little sacrifice, and little concern for God’s will. It’s a life lived on our terms, where self is king and comfort is god. We decide right and wrong. This path is attractive. Crowded. Popular. But it leads to destruction.

The sobering part is the word “many.” Not some, not a few—many. Many people walk this road because it feels right, looks good, and is affirmed by the culture. But feelings, appearance, and public opinion are not good guides to eternal life.

The Narrow Gate: The Way of the Few

In contrast, Jesus tells us about a narrow gate and a hard road that leads to life. Few find it.

Why is it hard? Because it demands repentance. It calls for humility, obedience, and a death to self. God decides right and wrong. The narrow path is the way of the cross, and Jesus never sugarcoated that.

And yet—it leads to life.

Not just eternal life after death, but true, abundant life now (John 10:10). Life filled with peace, purpose, forgiveness, and joy in the presence of God. The hard road is worth it.

A Call to Examine the Path

This teaching forces us to ask hard questions: What road am I on? Have I entered through the narrow gate? Am I following Jesus or simply drifting with the crowd?

It’s not enough to be spiritual. It’s not enough to go to church. Jesus says clearly: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 7:21).

But here’s the good news: the narrow gate is open. Jesus Himself is the door (John 10:9). All who come to Him in faith will find that while the road is hard, His grace is sufficient. His Spirit empowers. And His love endures.

A Road Less Traveled—But Never Walked Alone

If you’re walking the narrow path, take heart. You may wonder where everyone is, but you’re never alone. Jesus walks with you. And the destination? It’s life beyond imagination.

So let’s help others find the right gate. Let’s keep walking the path God has set before us. And let’s remember that the hard road is the holy road—and it’s leading us home.

H.K. Holevinsky