Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
The Greek word for “Strait” signifies restrained or “Narrow”. Now a “Gate” serves two purposes: it lets in and it shuts out. All who enter this Narrow Gate gain admittance to that “Way” which “leadeth unto life;” but all who enter not by this Narrow Gate, are eternally barred from God’s presence. The second use of this Gate is solemnly illustrated at the close of the parable of the virgins. There, our Lord pictures the foolish ones as being without the necessary “oil” (the work of the Spirit in the heart), and while they went to buy it, the Bridegroom came, and “the door was shut” (Matthew 25:10); and though they then besought him to open it to them, He answered “I know you not.”
What is denoted by this figure of the “Narrow Gate?” We believe the reference is to the searching and solemn teaching of Him who is Truth incarnate. It is only as the heart bows to the righteousness of God’s claims and demands upon us as set forth by His Son, that any soul can enter that path which alone leads to Him. While the heart is rebellious against Him there can be no approach to Him, for—”Can two walk together except they be agreed?” It is true, blessedly and gloriously true, that Christ Himself is “the Door” (John 10:9). He is “the Door” into God’s presence