Matthew 7 – The Way is Narrow Posted on May 17, 2024May 17, 2024 By Tomiwa Akanbi In Matthew chapter 7, Jesus told us something the Bible has always said from the beginning – when it comes to being on the right side of God or being against him, we all will decide that. Jesus went ahead to say there are only two possible realities – being on the narrow way and being on the broad way. Jesus tells us that the narrow gate leads to a challenging path filled with hardships and tough decisions. Following Him means: Denying our desires (Galatians 2:20; 5:24; Romans 6:2), living by faith (Romans 1:17; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 10:38) Enduring trials with patience (James 1:2–3, 12; 1 Peter 1:6), and Maintaining a lifestyle distinct from the world (James 1:27; Romans 12:1–2). When we have to choose between a rough, narrow road and a wide, smooth one, most of us opt for the easier path. Our natural inclination is towards comfort and pleasure, so when faced with the sacrifices required to follow Jesus, many people turn away (John 6:66). Jesus was always clear about the cost of discipleship, acknowledging that few are willing to pay it. God offers salvation to all who accept it, but it has to be on His terms. We cannot create our paths to God or rely on our righteousness, which is small and ugly in comparison to His own (Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:10). Sin blocked the way to God (Romans 5:12), and none of us deserve another chance. We all merit the “wide road that leads to destruction.” Yet, out of love, God provided a way to eternal life (Romans 5:6–8). However, in a self-centered, sinful world, few truly seek God on His terms (John 6:44, 65; Romans 3:11; Jeremiah 29:13). Satan tempts us with worldly attractions and moral compromises, making the path to hell enticing. Many people let their desires lead them, choosing temporary pleasures over the self-denial required to follow Jesus (Mark 8:34; Luke 9:23; Matthew 10:37). As a result, the narrow gate is often overlooked. Many prefer to create their own beliefs and gods. Therefore, with sorrow, not discrimination, Jesus stated that the road to eternal life is “narrow, and only a few find it.” Entering The Narrow Way Entering the narrow way means we have to leave behind everything that will hinder us from walking in this way. It means abandoning our old lives, including our reasonings and ideas. Our belief in our abilities. Relationships that hold us back from him. Status. Honor. Pride. Those have to be counted as loss and rubbish and left outside the gate; there is no room for them with us on the narrow way. If we can get our eyes opened to see, as Paul saw, the value of what it is to “gain Christ,” then we can see how it is possible to count everything else as loss. Jesus Is The Way And what is the result of walking in this way? We will get to know Jesus as our personal friend and brother! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tomiwa | A man sent from God (@ptomjoe) “That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death.” Philippians 3:10 And not only that we know Him, but we can rest in the assurance that when our time on earth is over and we go into eternity, He will know us! “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” Matthew 7:21. Discover more from Christian Creator | Kabiyesi of Digital Marketing Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email. Type your email… Subscribe Christian content
Christian content Stop Arguing with Atheists! Posted on May 16, 2024May 17, 2024 I have encountered many people who do not believe in the existence of God. They are known as Atheists. If you are a Christian, you should not argue with them or try to convince them. Not because Christianity cannot be defended in a logical argument – or a one-on-one logical… Read More