Matthew 7:14

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

Because {G3754} strait {G4728} is the gate {G4439}, and {G2532} narrow {G2346} is the way {G3598}, which {G3588} leadeth {G520} unto {G1519} life {G2222}, and {G2532} few {G3641} there be {G1526} that find {G2147} it {G846}.

but it is a narrow gate and a hard road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it.

For narrow is the gate, and straitened the way, that leadeth unto life, and few are they that find it.

Matthew 7:14 (KJV): "Because strait [is] the gate, and narrow [is] the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."

Context

This verse concludes a section in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) where He contrasts two paths or two ways. Immediately preceding this verse, in Matthew 7:13, Jesus describes the wide gate and broad way that leads to destruction, which many enter. Verse 14 presents the alternative – a difficult, less traveled path leading to life.

Key Themes

  • The Difficulty of the Path: Jesus explicitly states the gate is "strait" (meaning narrow or difficult) and the way is "narrow." This signifies that the path leading to true spiritual life is not easy, requiring discipline, sacrifice, and commitment.
  • Exclusivity of the Way: The narrowness implies that there is only one true way to life. This aligns with other teachings about Jesus being the unique path to the Father.
  • Few Find It: A poignant and challenging aspect of this verse is the declaration that "few there be that find it." This suggests that while salvation is offered freely, the commitment required to walk the narrow way is not embraced by the majority.

Linguistic Insights

The word translated "strait" (Greek: stenos) means narrow, confined, or difficult. It is distinct from the word "straight" (meaning direct or not crooked). The KJV uses "strait" correctly here, emphasizing the constricted and arduous nature of the entrance and the path, not merely its linearity. The phrase "few there be that find it" highlights the reality that despite the universal invitation, the response is limited.

Reflection & Application

This verse serves as a stark warning and a clear call. It reminds us that following Christ is not a path of least resistance or popularity. It requires deliberate choice and perseverance. The "life" spoken of is not merely physical existence but eternal, spiritual life, the kind Jesus came to give (see John 10:10). Finding and staying on this narrow way involves prioritizing God's will over worldly desires and conforming to Christ's teachings, even when it means going against the flow of popular culture or opinion. It encourages introspection: Are we on the narrow way, or are we perhaps drifting onto the broad path simply because it's easier or more crowded?

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 13:23

    ¶ Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,

  • Luke 13:30

    And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.

  • Matthew 22:14

    For many are called, but few [are] chosen.

  • Matthew 16:24

    ¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

  • Matthew 16:25

    For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

  • Romans 12:2

    And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

  • Isaiah 35:8

    And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it [shall be] for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err [therein].
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