The Narrow Door

While traveling toward Jerusalem, an unnamed person asked Jesus what seemed like a simple question: Whether just a few people would be saved. We can imagine the person expected a clear statement. Instead, Jesus focused on those who were listening. He wanted them to be concerned about how they were living.

He began by stressing that they should focus on entering “through the narrow door.” They should realize that there were many “doors” from which they could choose. As they made decisions, they should focus on the narrow way that pleased God.

Jesus stressed that they must “strive” to enter through this narrow door, using a word that suggests a contest, a fight. He was warning that we’re involved in a struggle. We must be prepared to wrestle. In fact, He warned that many “will seek to enter and will not be able.”

Jesus then used the analogy of people seeking entrance to a house. Once the owner closes the door, it remains closed. He only will open it for the right person, for a person whose life is right in His sight.

In this analogy, the people knocking on the door were surprised by the owner’s response. They reminded the owner of their lives and accomplishments. But even though the owner did not deny their conclusions, he told them they had fallen short: “I tell you, I do not know where you are from.” Disqualified and rejected, they were told: “Depart from me, all you evildoers.”

Today, remember how easy it can be to make wrong assumptions. Make sure that you seek to enter by the narrow door. Make certain that your life is right with God, so He will open the door when you knock.