What does Matthew 7:13 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 7:13 commands the reader to seek a narrow and challenging path, rather than follow a broader, easier one that leads to destruction. The "strait gate" signifies an entrance that is narrow and often difficult to pass through.

It is a metaphor for a way of life that requires discipline, commitment, and the following of Jesus's teachings which may not be popular or easy.

Conversely, the "wide gate" and "broad way" represent the path of least resistance, full of temptations and easier choices that lead away from salvation and towards spiritual ruin, or "destruction."

Historical Context

This verse comes from the Sermon on the Mount, delivered by Jesus and recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, chapters 5-7.

This sermon includes many teachings about morality, spirituality, and the Kingdom of Heaven.

At the time, Jesus was addressing a Jewish audience under Roman occupation, where religious practices were influenced by a mixture of strict adherence to Mosaic Law and the Hellenistic cultural influx.

Jesus's teaching urged listeners to go beyond outward religious compliance and focus on inner purity and righteousness.

Theological Insights

Differing theological perspectives interpret this verse in various ways:

• Evangelical: It is often taken as an exhortation to choose the difficult path of Christian discipleship over the easier life without Christ.
• Calvinist: It might be seen as indicative of God's sovereign will, with the "few" who find the narrow way being the elect.
• Arminian: It could be seen as a call to individual responsibility in choosing salvation through free will.
• Catholic: This could be viewed as a reminder of the need for the Sacraments and church teachings as guidance on the narrow path.
• Universalist: It may be interpreted less as a pronouncement about eternal damnation and more as a warning against the spiritual perils of a materialistic lifestyle.

Practical Applications

The verse provides a stark reminder to consider the consequences of one's choices.

It can be applied to encourage moral integrity, discipline, and perseverance in face of societal pressures to conform to less virtuous norms.

It prompts a personal assessment of one's life direction and priorities, inspiring believers to strive for spiritual goals over immediate gratifications.

Cross-References

• Luke 13:24 - "Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."
• Proverbs 14:12 - "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death."
• Matthew 7:14 - "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."

Language Study

The original Greek words in this verse provide depth to its meaning:

• "Strait" (στενός, stenos): This means narrow or confined, suggesting difficulty and restriction.
• "Gate" (πύλη, pyle): A door or entrance, metaphorically the mode of entry to a way of life.
• "Destruction" (ἀπώλεια, apoleia): This term conveys ruin, loss, or damnation, suggesting severe, eternal consequences.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of two paths is a common motif in various religious and philosophical traditions.

For instance, in Buddhism, there’s the Noble Eightfold Path leading to enlightenment, contrasted with paths of ignorance leading to suffering.

In the Greek mythology, Hercules had to choose between the path of virtue (steep and rugged) or vice (broad and easy), similar to the imagery in Matthew 7:13.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly relate to scientific exploration, it does speak to the human psychology of decision-making. Cognitive science shows that humans often choose the path of least resistance due to cognitive biases.

This verse challenges such natural tendencies, advocating for mindful, conscientious decision-making that aligns with spiritual and moral values.

Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary suggests that entering the strait gate requires a conscious struggle, as the broad way is natural to human inclinations.

Similarly, the Pulpit Commentary notes the emphasis on the difficult choice between a godly life of self-denial versus the ease of worldly ways.

Many modern theologians affirm that this teaching is not about works-based salvation but about the complete transformation of life and values requisite in genuine faith and discipleship.