What Is the Narrow Gate in Matthew 7?
What Is the Narrow Gate in Matthew 7? Jesus taught that the path to eternal life is narrow and few find it, contrasting it with the broad way that leads to destruction.
Key verse: Matthew 7:13-14 (KJV)
Jesus taught that the path to eternal life is narrow and few find it, contrasting it with the broad way that leads to destruction.
Jesus taught that the path to eternal life is narrow and few find it, contrasting it with the broad way that leads to destruction.
"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it." — Matthew 7:13-14 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
Cross-reference scriptures
The Biblical Answer
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus urged His followers to enter through the narrow gate. The narrow gate represents the way of discipleship — repentance, faith in Christ, and obedience to God's Word. It requires self-denial and a willingness to follow Jesus regardless of the cost. The broad way, by contrast, is the path of least resistance — following the world's values and one's own desires. Jesus made clear that the majority would choose the easy road, but only the narrow path leads to life. This teaching challenges every believer to examine whether they are truly following Christ or simply going along with the crowd.
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Hell?
What the Bible teaches about hell, eternal punishment, and the fate of the unrighteous.
Key Scripture References
"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."
"Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
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Repentance is a genuine change of mind and heart about sin, turning away from it and toward God.
Did Jesus Really Rise from the Dead?
The Bible presents the resurrection as historical fact, supported by eyewitness testimony, an empty tomb, and transformed lives.
Is Jesus God?
Yes — the Bible teaches that Jesus is fully God and fully man, the second person of the Trinity.
What Is the Trinity?
The Trinity is the doctrine that God exists as three persons — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — in one divine being.
Who Is the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity — fully God, who indwells, guides, and empowers believers.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Matthew 7:13-14 — Meaning & Devotional
The Narrow Way
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Theology & Doctrine
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Matthew 7:13-14 Commentary
In-depth study • Salvation & Choice
Matthew 7:14 Commentary
In-depth study • Beatitudes & Sermon on the Mount
Read it in context
The answer above sits inside Matthew. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Matthew on day 284 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
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