By Joe Slater
“Strait is the gate and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and
few there be that find it” (Matthew 7: 14, KJV).
The expression “strait and narrow” has become proverbial in
reference to careful compliance with the rules given by parents or by
God. However, most mistakenly understand it as straight and narrow.”
The spelling difference is subtle, but the change in meaning is radical!
A “strait” (without the g-h) is seldom straight. Look at the Strait of
Magellan or the Strait of Hormuz on a map. They’re anything but
straight! Guiding a ship through those straits takes plenty of zigzagging
along a difficult and narrow route! They’re called “straits” because
they’re difficult, not because they go from point “a” to point “b”
without deviation.
Many other Scriptures teach us not to deviate from God’s word, but
“strait” in Matthew 7:14 isn’t making that point. The path to eternal
life is narrow and difficult! By contrast, the way to destruction is wide
and easy (7:13). Most people find wide and easy to be appealing.
Comparatively few put forth the effort to travel the narrow, difficult
path.
But wait! Doesn’t the majority rule? That sounds very American!
How can the majority of people be wrong? Isn’t it arrogant to say that?
Well, we didn’t say it – Jesus did. A majority of Jesus’ own people
(the Jews) rejected Him. Despite the thousands who became Christians
in Acts, vastly more rejected the gospel. This is nothing new; God has
always operated with a remnant.
Are you on that narrow way? It’s difficult, but the destination
makes it more than worth the effort!
Via Bulletin Gold