Matthew 7:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 7:14
14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Chapter Context
Matthew 7 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, discipleship, fellowship. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 7:14
14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
Analysis
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.
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.
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?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 20:16, 22:14, Proverbs 8:20, Isaiah 30:21, 35:8, Jeremiah 6:16