In Matthew 7:13-14, we read; “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.”
Genuine salvation isn’t easy. Jesus is here in Matthew chapter 7, ending His sermon on the mount. And He warns people – it’s not easy, and notice that phrase “those who find it are few”.
Then, let’s read in Luke 13:22-25, “He went on his way through towns and villages, teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem. And someone said to him, ‘Lord, will those who are saved be few?’ And he said to them, ‘Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.'”
Notice again He mentions the NARROW entrance. We must die completely to self, seeking ONLY His righteousness and payment for our sins, and that begins when we realize how great sinners we are and how hopeless we are without Him! Jesus said “…MANY, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” That has always been true, and is very true in today’s world as well. Too many people want to hold on to their sin and the world around us is so in opposition to the truth that they argue, “You don’t have to repent of your sin…you simply have to believe in Jesus!”
Remember Jesus own words, “No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:3) Salvation is truly by grace alone through faith alone, but that faith has to start somewhere, and if we argue “I don’t have to give up my sin…”, okay – then what do you need salvation for? Jesus first statement in the sermon on the mount was “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Those who come to Him repenting of their sin and acknowledging their hopelessness, and then “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” – Those who hate their sin, and sorrow over their wickedness, seeking a Saviour! “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret…” (2 Corinthians 7:10)
That’s why Jesus said “those who find it are few”. Many people want Jesus, but they want to run and rule their own lives. That’s not the narrow way….that’s the way that leads to destruction! How terribly sad that there are “MANY” who refuse the narrow way, and yet think they are saved. Genuine faith will result in a heart that hates sin and desires to flea from it because sin is rebellion against a Holy God! One must ask this question, “Is hanging onto the lusts of the flesh and the sins of this world in this brief lifetime worth eternity in hell? “For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many.”