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    Salvation & Choice

    Matthew 7:13-14 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "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)
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    Introduction

    Two gates, two roads, two destinations, two crowds. The wide path is popular but leads to destruction. The narrow path is unpopular but leads to life.

    Historical Context

    Ancient cities had wide main gates and small gates requiring bending and leaving baggage behind. Jesus uses this to describe radically different life pathways.

    Original Language Insights

    'Strait' (stene) — narrow, confined. Not 'straight' but 'tight.' You can't bring everything with you.

    'Few' (oligoi) — a small number. One of Jesus' most sobering statements.

    Theological Significance

    This teaches the exclusivity of salvation. Jesus Himself is that gate (John 10:9; 14:6). Popularity is not a reliable indicator of truth.

    Practical Application

    Examine which gate you've entered. Don't follow the crowd by default. Help others find the narrow gate.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    John 14:6

    "No man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

    Jesus identifies Himself as the narrow gate.

    Luke 13:24

    "Strive to enter in at the strait gate."

    Luke's parallel adds urgency.

    Prayer Response

    Lord Jesus, You are the narrow gate. I choose You — not the comfortable path but the way that leads to life. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does 'few' mean most people are going to hell?

    Jesus warns the majority default to the wide path. The point is salvation requires intentional choice — it's not the path of least resistance.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying Matthew 7 verse by verse:

    Before · Matthew 7:7Exact verse

    Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

    Theme: Prayer & Persistence

    Before · Matthew 7:8Exact verse

    For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

    Theme: Prayer

    Before · Matthew 7:12Exact verse

    Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

    Theme: Golden Rule

    After · Matthew 7:14Exact verse

    Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

    Theme: Beatitudes & Sermon on the Mount

    After · Matthew 7:21Exact verse

    Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

    Theme: True Discipleship

    After · Matthew 7:24-25Exact verse

    Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.

    Theme: Foundation of Faith

    Read Matthew 6Commentary: Matthew 6:13
    Read Matthew 7 (full)Nearest commentary: Matthew 7:13
    Read Matthew 8No commentary yet
    Previous commentary: Matthew 7:12Next commentary: Matthew 7:14

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    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    What Is the Narrow Gate?

    Jesus taught that the way to eternal life is narrow and few find it, while the broad road leading to destruction is easy and popular.

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    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.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Pride?

    The Bible warns that pride is the root of many sins, leading to destruction and separation from God, while humility is the path to grace and honor.

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    What Does the Bible Say About Suicide?

    The Bible records several suicides without endorsing them and consistently affirms that life is sacred and belongs to God.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Lying?

    The Bible identifies lying as an abomination to God, lists it among things He hates, and contrasts Satan as the father of lies with Christ as the way, the truth, and the life.

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    What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?

    Being born again is a spiritual rebirth — the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit that gives a person new spiritual life, enabling them to see and enter God's kingdom.

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    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    Matthew 7:13-14 – Meaning & Devotional

    "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."

    Related Miracles

    Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

    Power Over Nature
    New Testament

    Jesus Walks on Water

    Jesus walked on the Sea of Galilee in the fourth watch of the night and bid Peter come to Him.

    Read the miracle
    Healing
    New Testament

    Healing of the Centurion's Servant

    Jesus marveled at the centurion's faith and healed his servant from a distance with a word.

    Read the miracle
    Signs & Wonders
    New Testament

    The Transfiguration of Jesus

    Jesus is transfigured on a mountain, His face shining as the sun, with Moses and Elijah appearing.

    Read the miracle
    Provision
    New Testament

    Feeding of the 4,000

    Jesus feeds 4,000 men with seven loaves and a few small fishes, with seven baskets left over.

    Read the miracle

    Related Reading

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    Matthew 7:13-14 — Meaning & Devotional

    The Narrow Way

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    Q&A

    What Is the Narrow Gate?

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    What Is the Narrow Gate in Matthew 7?

    Theology & Doctrine

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