“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.”
Matthew 7:13-14 NLTJ
https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.7.13-14.NLT
Jesus contrasts the broad participation in sin and destruction with a very specific and focused way of coming into God’s Kingdom.
Reflection
The Old Testament contains a set of specific laws focused on what the people of Israel needed to do to be in the right relationship with God. We know from reading the Old Testament that this way was not easy, and people had a hard time following it.
Sin, rebellion, and destruction were a constant deception and distraction.
In the New Testament, Jesus gives us a new way of entering into God’s Kingdom that is also very specific and focused. This new way replaces the old way. Jesus says it like this: “Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 NLT.
Jesus tells us right up front that following him is both difficult and worthwhile: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NLT.
Encouragement
The invitation to come to God through Jesus Christ is specific and focused. This is the one and only way to God. The challenges of following Christ are real. However, the outcomes (results) last forever. It is totally worth it.
Don’t be deceived by interpreting the “narrow gate” as leaving a lot of people out. Jesus invites everyone to follow him.
The challenge is that most people would rather continue with a way of life that is focused on their own pleasure, satisfaction, and gratification. Most prefer to do what is right in their own eyes rather than receive Jesus' invitation.
I appreciate Christ's specific and focused invitation. I don’t have to search anymore. I am right with God because of Jesus. It’s okay that following him can be hard. The Holy Spirit is with me every step of the way. The results are transformative and last forever in God's living presence.
Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for being specific and focused with us. You are the way, the truth, and the life. We do come to God’s presence only through you.
Following you and learning your ways is hard, as it increasingly separates us from the strong grip of sin that has worked its way into every aspect of our lives.
This transformative tearing away from sin and entering into a new life defined and described by God through you takes real effort.
Thank you for the Holy Spirit's presence with us as we learn to follow your specific and focused ways of living.
In your name, Jesus, we pray,
Amen
Ed McDowell