Enter through the Narrow Gate

 

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Northwest Bible Church – Aug. 16, 2026 – Matthew – Alan Conner

Mt. 7:13-14

Enter through the Narrow Gate

Intro

A. WE MUST ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM.

1. “enter” is used of “entering the kingdom of heaven” (5:20, 7:21; 18:3; 19:23-24; 23:13) or entering into life (18:8-9; 19:17).

2. The aorist imperative stresses the great importance and urgency of entering through the narrow gate.

B. TWO KINDS OF GATES.

1. The symbolism of a gate.

2. “Narrow” – Not “straight”. Symbolizes conversion through faith in Christ.

3. “Wide” – symbolizes the world’s religions.

C. TWO KINDS OF ROADS/WAYS.

1. Metaphor – both roads/ways here would refer to the following lifestyle of those who enter through the respective gates.

2. broad way – This is the lifestyle of the ungodly.

3. narrow way (v. 14) – the lifestyle of a disciple.

D. TWO KINDS OF DESTINIES.

1. Destruction – Not annihilation, but eternal hell.

2. Life – Eternal life, abundant life, joy, heavenly fellowship with God, angels and God’s people.

E. TWO KINDS OF PEOPLE

1. Many – Matt. 22:14.

2. Few – “few who find it” (v. 14).

Conclusion – Choose life!