The path to salvation and destruction

“Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” (Luke 13:24)

The path to destruction is wide, easy, and appealing to many. On the other hand, the path to salvation is narrow, difficult, and treaded by only a few (Matthew 7:13-14). 

Why will many people not be able to enter the narrow gate of salvation – is this gate so elusive, difficult to find? 

While the True Jesus Church may be a small denomination in the Christian world, we also know that the gospel is not chained. Since the beginning of time, our one true God has made Himself known to mankind through the natural world He has created. We have also witnessed how our Almighty God has enabled the gospel to be spread during humanly impossible situations and in the most unexpected ways, be it in the bible during the apostolic times, or in personal testimonies of brethren today. Therefore, the narrow gate is not inaccessible – in fact, God, who wants all man to be saved, has left this gate wide open for all who are willing to enter.  

The real obstacle to the narrow gate? Our hearts.  

For example, if our hearts are unrepentant (Luke 13:5), like the self-righteous Jews who thought themselves better than the Galileans killed by Pilate (Luke 13:1-2), and the stubborn synagogue ruler who criticised Jesus for healing a woman on the Sabbath (Luke 13:14).   

Or, if we do not bear fruit in the form of good works and changed conduct (Luke 13:9).

Therefore, today, if we hear Jesus’ voice, do not harden our hearts in unbelief, rebellion and sin’s deceitfulness (Hebrews 3:12-15). Instead, humbly enter the narrow gate by receiving God’s words with meekness (James 1:21), and strive to finish this difficult path to salvation by sustaining our faith steadfast until the end. 

Do not wait until the gate is finally closed at our deathbed and God’s judgement (Luke 13:27, 34-35). 

In our journey to heaven, may we emulate the spirit of these people: 

“Since that time the kingdom of God has been preached, and everyone is pressing into it.” (Luke 16:16)