Luke 13:23
Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The question about few being saved reflects Jewish debate over Gentile inclusion and salvation criteria. Some rabbis taught that all Israel would be saved; others emphasized strict observance requirements. Jesus' answer warns against presuming salvation through ethnic heritage ('we have eaten and drunk in thy presence,' v.26) or religious association. His warning that 'many will seek to enter and shall not be able' challenges comfortable assumptions about automatic salvation. The narrow gate/broad way contrast (Matthew 7:13-14) became central to Christian understanding of salvation's exclusivity through Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- What does the call to strive and agonize teach about the seriousness of pursuing salvation?
- How does Jesus' answer challenge both presumptuous assurance and anxious uncertainty about salvation?
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Analysis & Commentary
Someone asks: 'Lord, are there few that be saved?' Jesus responds: 'Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able' (Κύριε, εἰ ὀλίγοι οἱ σῳζόμενοι; ὁ δὲ εἶπεν πρὸς αὐτούς, Ἀγωνίζεσθε εἰσελθεῖν διὰ τῆς στενῆς θύρας· ὅτι πολλοί, λέγω ὑμῖν, ζητήσουσιν εἰσελθεῖν καὶ οὐκ ἰσχύσουσιν). Jesus redirects from speculation to personal urgency. The verb 'agōnizomai' (ἀγωνίζεσθε, strive) means agonize, fight, compete intensely—salvation requires wholehearted commitment. The 'narrow door' (στενῆς θύρας) admits only those willing to abandon self-righteousness and trust Christ alone.