Matthew 7:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 7:13
13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
Chapter Context
Matthew 7 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of salvation, judgment, covenant. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-29: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 7:13
13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
Analysis
Jesus contrasts two paths: 'Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat' (Greek: στενὴ ἡ πύλη καὶ τεθλιμμένη ἡ ὁδός, 'narrow the gate and constricted the way'). The 'wide gate' and 'broad way' suggest easy, popular path requiring little sacrifice. It 'leads to destruction' (ἀπώλειαν) - eternal ruin, not annihilation. 'Many' travel this path - majority does not determine truth. The imagery evokes Deuteronomy 30:15-20's choice between life and death, blessing and curse. The easy path is deceptive - comfortable now but catastrophic eternally.
Historical Context
Two-ways teaching was common in Jewish and early Christian instruction (Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Jeremiah 21:8, Didache 1-6, Barnabas 18-20). Jesus' audience, mostly poor peasants, might have expected the elite's path to be narrow and difficult, but Jesus reverses this - the popular path leads to destruction regardless of who travels it. Early Christians, a persecuted minority, found comfort in this teaching - their narrow, difficult path was correct despite societal opposition.
Reflection
- What makes the broad path attractive yet ultimately destructive?
- How does cultural popularity or majority opinion mislead regarding truth and life?
- What specific 'narrow gate' choices challenge you to swim against cultural currents?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 3:2, 3:8, 23:13, Proverbs 9:6, 16:25, Isaiah 55:7