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 hope, truth, holiness. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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