In most things, we prefer to have a middle way, to find compromises. We have sayings like “hedging our bets.”  We want a back-up plan in place in case the first approach fails. For our own good, Jesus often presents us with a binary choice. (See also Psalm 1 and Galatians 5 for other examples). 

As he comes to the end of his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus offers a binary choice with no middle ground.  Take the narrow gate or follow the crowd into the wide gate. He speaks directly, boldly, and without compromise. He wants us to choose life.

The way of Jesus is harder but infinitely better.

The narrow gate leads to a path that is hard but ultimately brings life. The wide gate, which most people take, leads to an easy way that ends in destruction. “Enter by the narrow gate,” says Jesus directly (v. 13). He wants us to enjoy life with him, not end in destruction. It would be unloving not to issue this warning. We must each ask ourselves, “which path am I on?”  

There are false teachers who would confuse you and offer a compromise (v. 15). They are wolves. Look closely at the fruit of their lives. We are saved by a real relationship with Jesus. It is not about doing works, even mighty ones, in his name that will save us (see v. 23).

Taking It Home: Here, Jesus says the way to life is hard (v.14). Four chapters later, he says his yoke is easy (Matt. 11:30). Rejecting the popular path is hard, but serving sin is even harder in the long run. Choose life.