The Greek word stenós, represented by G4728, means strait or narrow. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. The term describes something that is narrow, as if from obstacles standing close about.
In the biblical narrative, G4728 is used exclusively to describe the strait gate. In Matthew 7:13, it is contrasted with the wide gate and broad way that leads to destruction, which many people enter. The following verse explains that because the gate is strait and the way is narrow, only a few G3641 find the path that leads to life Matthew 7:14. In Luke, the command is given to strive to enter the strait gate, with a warning that many will seek to enter but will not be able Luke 13:24.
Several related words clarify the meaning of the strait gate and its alternative:
- G2346 thlíbō (narrow): This word is used alongside stenós to describe the way to life, translated as narrow Matthew 7:14. It signifies being crowded or afflicted, highlighting the difficulty of the path.
- G4116 platýs (wide): In direct contrast to the strait gate, this term describes the wide gate that leads to destruction, which many enter Matthew 7:13.
- G2149 eurýchōros (broad): This word is used to describe the broad way that leads to destruction, emphasizing its spacious and easy nature Matthew 7:13.
- G75 agōnízomai (strive): This verb describes the effort required to enter the strait gate. Believers are commanded to strive to enter, indicating a conscious and fervent struggle Luke 13:24.
The theological weight of G4728 is centered on the doctrine of the two ways.
- The Path of Destruction: Scripture presents a path characterized by a wide G4116 gate and a broad G2149 way. This path leadeth G520 to destruction G684, and many G4183 are on it Matthew 7:13.
- The Path to Life: In contrast, the path that leadeth G520 to life G2222 is through a strait G4728 gate and a narrow G2346 way. It is found by only a few G3641, underscoring its exclusivity Matthew 7:14.
- The Call to Effort: Entry through the strait gate is not passive. It requires one to strive G75 and seek G2212 to enter. The warning that many will not be able G2480 highlights the necessity of deliberate and forceful effort Luke 13:24.
In summary, G4728 stenós is a critical term used to illustrate the nature of the path to salvation. Though it appears only three times, it powerfully establishes the metaphor of the two ways. The strait gate represents a difficult, deliberate, and narrow entrance to life G2222 that few find, standing in stark contrast to the easy, broad way to destruction G684 that many follow. It serves as a call to strive G75 and consciously choose the demanding path that leads to life.
TRV