13: The word ‘strait’ in this verse means narrow. Jesus here establishes a principle that is sometimes forgotten. Most people will not enter into eternal life. The narrow gate itself is Christ, though, in a very real sense, this verse refers back to the proceeding one. Treating others as you yourself would be treated is a very narrow path, and Christ is the door to it. Indeed, the word ‘gate’ usually refers to the entrance to a city. This would be the heavenly city, which Abraham and his children of faith have looked for throughout history (see Hebrews 11:10).
14: Interestingly enough, early Christians were sometimes referred to as members of ‘The Way’. Apparently, they took Jesus’ words to heart. Indeed, love for others has characterized true Christianity down through the years. The most enduring examples of Christian values and living have come from those who observe James 1:27: “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”
Daily Bible Reading: Isaiah 33:1-36:22
Daily Memory Verse: Jude 1:13 “Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.“
Daily Tidbit: Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:13-14 was controversial. Jewish people at that time thought that most Jews would be saved, and that very few would not. Jesus teaches the opposite. Even today, it is difficult for people to accept this teaching of Christ. It is hard for us to imagine that most people will not enter into eternal life in heaven. However, this seems to be the consistent teaching of Scripture. We know that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, but how many enter at this Door? We must pray earnestly for the vast myriads of people in our world who even now are on the edge of eternity. It is our responsibility to take the gospel to the world, and we must pray that Almighty God will send laborers forth for this great work.
Praise Journal: Heavenly Father, give us an understanding of Your ways. Show us the path that You have for us in Christ. Give us a vision of the many millions going through the broad gate to destruction. Oh Father, give us a heart like yours! Rather than being filled with pride, may we humbly realize the value of the lives all around us. Lord God, You have an endless love for man, let us ride of the wave of Your compassion. Make us sensitive to Your pity and care for the needs of humanity. Help us to see Your hand at work in this world. Show us Your design for Your world. May we see the awesome plan that You have set forth for this existence. Oh Father, make Your great glory shine forth into our soul! You are worthy to be praised! You have made us, and not we ourselves. As the great Creator, we expect so much from You, yet we often fail to respond to Your commands. May we please You at all times. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.
Prayer Journal Highlights: Pray for a family whose house just burnt down.
Personal Journal Entry #12217