Matthew 7:14
Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Original Language Analysis
ὅτί
Because
G3754
ὅτί
Because
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
1 of 19
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
οἱ
which
G3588
οἱ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πύλη
is the gate
G4439
πύλη
is the gate
Strong's:
G4439
Word #:
4 of 19
a gate, i.e., the leaf or wing of a folding entrance (literally or figuratively)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 19
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
οἱ
which
G3588
οἱ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὁδὸς
is the way
G3598
ὁδὸς
is the way
Strong's:
G3598
Word #:
8 of 19
a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
οἱ
which
G3588
οἱ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
εἰς
unto
G1519
εἰς
unto
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
11 of 19
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
οἱ
which
G3588
οἱ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
14 of 19
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὀλίγοι
few
G3641
ὀλίγοι
few
Strong's:
G3641
Word #:
15 of 19
puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat
οἱ
which
G3588
οἱ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
17 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Matthew 22:14For many are called, but few are chosen.Romans 12:2And 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 35:8And 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.Mark 8:34And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.Acts 14:22Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.Proverbs 8:20I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:Isaiah 30:21And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.John 16:33These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.Matthew 20:16So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.Jeremiah 6:16Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.
Historical Context
The narrow way evokes Proverbs 4:11-18's path of the righteous versus way of the wicked. Jesus' teaching comes at the Sermon's conclusion after describing costly discipleship - enemy-love, persecution, radical trust. The narrow way is discipleship to Jesus, not generic moral living. Early Christianity's narrow path included martyrdom, social ostracism, and economic sacrifice. 'Few find it' proved true - Christians remained small minority in Roman Empire for centuries despite evangelistic growth.
Questions for Reflection
- What specific demands of discipleship make the narrow way difficult?
- How does the promise of eternal life motivate perseverance on the difficult path?
- What cultural pressures tempt you to abandon the narrow way for the broad path?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus describes the alternative: 'Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it' (Greek: τί στενὴ ἡ πύλη καὶ τεθλιμμένη ἡ ὁδὸς ἡ ἀπάγουσα εἰς τὴν ζωήν, 'how narrow the gate and constricted the way leading to life'). 'Strait' (στενή) means narrow, confined. The narrow path requires self-denial, sacrifice, and countercultural choices. It 'leads to life' (ζωήν) - eternal life, relationship with God. 'Few find it' - not because it's hidden but because it's hard. People choose comfort over cost. This isn't elitism but realism about human nature's preference for ease.