The Narrow Door

LINDA SPARKS, Director of TEAM, Women’s, Assimilation, and Worship

• BIBLE VERSE

  Luke 13:24-25 “He replied, “Work hard to enter the narrow door to God’s Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail. When the master of the house has locked the door, it will be too late. You will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Lord, open the door for us!’ But he will reply, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’ “

• INTERPRETATION

  Work hard to enter the narrow gate – this is an interesting statement. While salvation is a free gift offered to all who ask God to forgive them of their sins – there is a striving, a struggle that happens in the soul when one comes to reason and think about the things of God. We can be familiar with God, we can attend church and be comfortable with God, but never enter into relationship with God. The way to God is exact and narrow – all roads don’t lead to God, there’s only one and you must put effort into finding that narrow road. There is a struggle for our souls and in the end – God will separate those that believe from those that don’t and the door will be closed forever. To be familiar with God doesn’t mean that you are saved. Many will knock with confidence pleading with God that they belong in heaven – but they never gave their hearts and lives over to God in saving faith.

• BREAKTHROUGH

  There is only one way to salvation – it’s through total surrender to Jesus Christ. All roads do not lead to heaven, only one and it’s exact and narrow.

• LIFE APPLICATION

  As I look at the ministry that God has allowed me to have – I should never assume that people have made a decision for Christ. I should always ask exacting questions – when did you pray the sinners prayer? I should always be ready to walk with anyone, any time, anywhere the narrow road that leads to heaven.

• ENTREATY

  God, give me insight when and were to ask those around me the question of their salvation. This is the most important decision that anyone will ever make. Help me to be a light for You wherever I go.