←
Explanation for:
Matthew
7
:
14
How narrow is the gate, and strait is the way that leadeth to life: and few there are that find it!
14
more explanations
& daily audio-books
spoken by
– enjoy in Theosis App –
Start your
Bible-journey
with explanations
& daily audio-books
only 4$* per month
{"arr":[{"author-name":"Basil the Great","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c889927158e4af30595484_Basil%20the%20Great.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Why are the gates referred to as ‘narrow’ and the path ‘restricted’ that leads ‘into the belly’ and how can one pass through it (Matthew 7:14)? Here, the terms narrow and confined convey similar meanings, yet close signifies an extreme level of narrowness, where one walking must contort themselves on both sides. Any deviation to either side can be perilous, akin to crossing a bridge, where the river below threatens to engulf you should you falter. Thus, David declares, \\"By the way of temptation have I laid me down\\" (Psalm 139:6). Consequently, anyone hoping to enter the belly through this constricted path must be vigilant against any diversions or temptations that stray from the Lord's commandments, adhering to the instruction: \\"Let not thou stray to the right hand or to the left\\" (Deuteronomy 17:11)."},{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The wide path represents the worldly pleasures that many pursue, whereas the narrow path is one opened through effort and self-denial, the same path the apostle embraced and encouraged Timothy to follow. Note how clearly He has described both routes. While many traverse the broad path, only a few discover the narrow one. We do not seek the wide path, nor is it necessary for us to do so; it lies open before us and leads those who wander away. In contrast, the narrow path is not easily found, and those who do discover it do not enter it right away. Yet, if numerous individuals, having recognized the way of truth, become entangled in the pleasures of this world, they often retreat from the halfway point."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"However, He later proclaimed, \\"My yoke is good and My burden is light\\" (Matthew 11:30). Just prior to this, He hinted at a similar message.Why then is the path that leads to life characterized as narrow and constricted? If you observe closely, you will find that the Savior also describes this path as very easy, pleasant, and straightforward. You may ask, how can a narrow path also be convenient? It is convenient because He is both the path and the gate—whereas another path, although broad and spacious, simply allows everything to pass through, whether the joys or sorrows of life. This is not merely due to the ease of virtue; the culmination of virtue brings even greater ease. The ascetics can take solace in the fact that their labors and struggles do not merely end, but lead into life itself. Thus, the brevity of suffering, the eternity of rewards, and the fact that labors precede the crowns while the crowns follow, all provide immense comfort during trials. This is why Paul referred to tribulation as light—not due to the sorrow’s nature itself, but because of the ascetics’ determination and the hopeful outlook for the future: for the lightness of affliction produces an eternal weight of glory, which is not for those who focus solely on the seen but rather on the unseen (2 Corinthians 4:17). If sailors find ease in waves and depths, warriors endure wounds and defeats, farmers withstand bad weather, and fighters persevere through hard blows—all for temporary and fleeting rewards—how much less should present afflictions weigh on us when we have awaiting unimaginable blessings and everlasting rewards in heaven. If some still perceive the path to life as challenging, it reflects their own laziness. Observe how the Savior makes this path easier by warning against distractions, advising against casting pearls before swine, and urging vigilance against false prophets, thereby encouraging us to remain alert. The very label of a narrow path prompts an essential watchfulness. Just as Paul mentions, \\"Our struggle is not against flesh and blood\\" (Eph. 6:12) to invigorate the hearts of soldiers, so Christ describes the path of life as difficult to rouse the alertness of travelers. Additionally, He points out the numerous distractions along the way, which are even more perilous because they are often camouflaged. These false prophets are precisely what He warns against. He instructs us not to be discouraged by the narrowness of the path, but rather to consider its destination; likewise, we shouldn’t be misled by the broadness of the opposing path, but reflect on where it ultimately leads. All these teachings intend to invigorate us. He also mentions that \\"the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force\\" (Matthew 11:12). An ascetic is driven to greater eagerness when he acknowledges the esteem given to difficult endeavors. Therefore, let us not despair when faced with adversities on life's journey. Although the path may be fraught with challenges and the gates tight, we must not lose sight of the glory to which they lead. So, we should not seek respite here, nor should we anticipate sadness there. When the Savior observes that few find this path, He highlights the laziness of many and urges His audience to focus not on the prosperity of the majority but on the efforts of the minority. Even more, He notes that there are many who not only neglect this treacherous path but do not even consider it, revealing extreme foolishness. We ought not to be troubled by the many but be inspired by the few, strengthening ourselves in every manner to persevere in this way. Besides its narrowness, many obstacles hinder our journey along it.\\n\\nThe gate is indeed narrow and the path narrow that leads to life (Matthew 7:14). It is rightly termed \\"narrow.\\" When we must account for our words, thoughts, actions, and all else, this path is truly narrower. We often make it narrower still by dulling our senses and widening our own ways, walking carelessly. This narrow path proves difficult for all, yet it is particularly burdensome for those who are indulgent. Conversely, those who strive will hardly notice the constriction—they who learn to endure hardship will not complain of feeling confined. Therefore, no one should expect to reach the heavens while living in comfort—it is unattainable! In indulgence, none should anticipate traversing the narrow path—this is impossible! Let none who travel the broad path expect to find life. If you see someone indulging in luxury, a lavish feast, or numerous servants, do not lament your circumstances for lacking such things, but rather pity them for they are on a path to destruction. Indeed, what merit lies in that path if it culminates in sorrow? On the other hand, what loss arises from narrowness if it leads to peace? Tell me, if one is summoned to royal palaces yet traverses narrow, treacherous passages, while another is condemned to death and paraded through the square, who would we regard as fortunate and whom would we grieve for? Surely it would not be the one taking the broad road. Therefore, we should not celebrate those living in outlandish luxury, but rather honor those who embrace simplicity. The latter hasten towards heaven, while the former head towards destruction."},{"author-name":"Ammon Abba","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Abba Ammon was inquired about the essence of the narrow path. He responded: The narrow way involves a continual effort to align one's thoughts and the relinquishment of personal desires for the glory of God. This is encapsulated in the scripture: ‘Behold, we have left everything and followed you’ (Matthew 19:27)."},{"author-name":"Ephraem the Syrian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88b589fc3e99eb7bb1839_Ephraem%20the%20Syrian.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Jesus renounced the world so that others would not live solely for it. He bore a body affixed to the Cross, signifying that no one should indulge in the comforts of the flesh. He gave His life for our sake, so that through His body we may be awakened to true life in His kingdom. He embraced the trials of human existence, teaching through His own afflictions; for He first underwent deep suffering to illustrate that becoming His follower requires more than mere acknowledgment—it demands endurance. As He Himself encompasses a vastness capable of containing the fullness of the Divine presence (Col. 2:9), He constricted Himself to ensure that those seeking to follow Him with insincerity would not find access. The wisdom He displayed in all aspects, He has bestowed upon us. It is one thing to inquire about Him who manifested in the world, and quite another to contemplate Him who resided within the one who appeared. In the world was He who transcends it. The Word of truth entered the world, and through His truth, as it pertains to us, He instructed us on how to walk in His light. ‘The gate,’ He declares, ‘is narrow.’"},{"author-name":"Augustine of Hippo","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88950a5c988a4fc06c7ae_Augustine%20of%20Hippo.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"The Lord states that He enters through a narrow gate, for the gate is wide and the way is spacious that leads to destruction, and many choose to walk that path. Conversely, the gate is narrow and the way is constricted that leads to life, and few discover it. This is not because the Lord's yoke is burdensome or His load is heavy, but rather because many are reluctant to engage fully in the work, and few heed His call: Come unto Me, all ye that labour, and I will comfort you; take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me: for I am meek and lowly in heart: for My yoke is good, and My burden is easy (Matthew 11:28-30). This is the reason the sermon began with the message about those who are humble and meek in spirit, for many disdain the good yoke and light burden, while only a few embrace them. It is through this acceptance that one may walk the narrow way leading to life and enter through the narrow gate."},{"author-name":"Cyrill of Alexandria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88a8ea5c988a4fc073480_Cyrill%20of%20Alexandria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"\\"Christ beckoned to His followers, saying, 'Enter in by the narrow gate' (Matthew 7:13), which signifies the narrow gate and the difficult path (Matthew 7:14). This path represents the endurance of hardships and commendable patience, through which those who aspire to greater truths can attain magnificent glory for themselves and find joy in the efforts required to cultivate strength and virtue. Just as triumph in warfare reflects the bravery of the warrior, so too does the ability to endure the trials of temptation with remarkable grace shine as glorious, commendable, and worthy of admiration. The disciple of the Lord reassures us that such a person will always be regarded with awe, stating: 'Blessed is the man who endures temptation, for when he has been tested, he will receive the crown of life' (James 1:12).\\""},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The term 'because' conveys a sense of wonder. The Lord expressed astonishment: What an entrance! He also states elsewhere, ‘My burden is easy.’ This is due to the promise of forthcoming rewards."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The gateway is indeed narrow, and the path that leads to the divine realm is constricted. This is communicated with an emphasis on its tightness, encouraging us to engage in the struggle and to be prepared to exhibit patience and endurance through toil. When trials come our way, especially those we anticipate, they tend to be much more bearable. Thus, Christ aimed for His disciples to be resolute in their endeavors and steadfast, revealing that this journey would be fraught with challenges and suffering. Yet, to comfort them regarding the afflictions that lie ahead and to ease their burden, He disclosed the ultimate destination of this path: eternal life. As you navigate through hardships and confront various tribulations, let your eyes be set on the promise of what lies ahead, drawing renewed strength from the hope of reward. It offers considerable solace to understand that these paths and gates are transitory; they do not endure. While many may choose the route that appears pleasing and labor-free, few venture down the path that is difficult and demanding. It is essential to recognize that Christ refers to the route of heavenly existence as narrow and constricted due to the temporal trials He endured. Conversely, He assures us that the yoke of His commandments is gracious, and the burden of His directives is light (Matt. 11:30), owing to the promise of eternal blessings. While virtue may seem weighty due to the effort required, it becomes lightened by the rewards that follow; the anticipation of future joy alleviates the heaviness of present sorrows."},{"author-name":"Elias (Meniates)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88b4cbf765f61f77850bd_Elias%20(Meniates).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":17,"exegesis-text":"The path leading to the Kingdom of Heaven is both narrow and filled with challenges; hence, many ascetics, upon choosing this route, renounced worldly possessions and embraced a life of poverty amidst various trials. The holy martyrs traveled this path not merely with their sweat but at the cost of their very blood. Therefore, anyone who carries themselves with pride or stands lofty before others will find it impossible to traverse this road unless they lower themselves, for the gate is narrow and the way is constricted! Those who are filled with earthly pleasures and indulge in excessive comforts will find it similarly difficult unless they engage in fasting and labor to discipline their bodies: the gate is narrow and the way is constricted! Those burdened with unnecessary possessions, unwilling to share with their neighbors, will find it equally challenging unless they rid themselves of such distractions: the gate is narrow and the way is constricted! Women, in particular, have much to release from their hearts if they wish to pass through this tight gate! This journey is arduous and fraught with obstacles, filled with thorns that scratch and prick. One must shed abundant sweat, endure hard labor, and bear much suffering in order to enter into Heaven, for \\"through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God!\\" Those who seek comfort and are offended by the slightest word will be unable to enter paradise: the gate is narrow, and the way is filled with sorrow! Who among us desires to reach Heaven? Certainly, all do. Thus, let everyone understand that the road to it is narrow and filled with hardship! When the prophet Elijah ascended to Heaven, he cast aside his outer robe. What did that robe signify? A humble sheepskin. Likewise, you, who exploit others or take advantage of the poor, should recognize that you will not be allowed entrance to Heaven disguised in another person's clothing. Do not cling to the foolish notion that you can enter Paradise adorned in someone else's belongings, having taken what rightfully belongs to your neighbor!"},{"author-name":"Ignatij (Briantchaninow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ce37597540c9caa5df5_Ignatij%20(Briantchaninow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The wide gate and the spacious path represent actions aligned with the desires and tendencies of our fallen nature. In contrast, the narrow gate signifies actions that adhere to the commandments of the Gospel. The Lord, aware of both present and future realities, understood how few would choose to follow His divine will as revealed in the Gospel. He acknowledged the preference for His holy will over selfish inclinations, stating: ‘What a narrow gate, and a narrow way, that leadeth unto life, and there are few that find it’ (Matthew 7:14). To uplift and reassure His disciples, He further proclaimed: ‘Do not be afraid, little flock: it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom’ (Luke 12:32). \\n\\nThe narrow gate symbolizes the diligent and careful study of God's Law, both through Scripture and through lived experience, while the narrow way represents a life fully devoted to following the teachings of the Gospel."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The number of those chosen by God's grace is indeed limited; our sinful nature leads us onto the wide path of transgression and destruction. With a heavy heart, the Lord states, ‘Because the gate is narrow and the way is narrow (oh, how narrow is the gate and the way is narrow!) that leads to eternal life!’ This path involves restraining our thoughts and relinquishing our own desires for the sake of God; it is a path marked by sorrow and trials, yet it ultimately guides us to a life of holiness and godliness, marked by purity and justice, culminating in eternal blessedness. St. Basil the Great remarks, ‘This way is so narrow that any deviation to the right or left is perilous, much like a bridge where a misstep can lead one into the waters below. Therefore, those who journey down this restricted path must be vigilant against any straying, adhering closely to the commands of the Lord, as it is written, ‘You shall not turn aside to the right or to the left (Deuteronomy 17:11).’ \\n\\nSt. Philaret elaborates that this journey often traverses the rivers of tears—blessed are those who mourn—or the desert of spiritual poverty—blessed are the poor in spirit—or through the wilderness of humiliation—blessed are the rejected; on this road, we encounter mortal peril. The one who loses their soul for My sake will find it, and at times, separation from those closest to us may be necessary, as the Lord states, for I have come to turn a man against his father. This path is indeed narrow and fraught with difficulty: the holy ascetics have drenched it with their sweat, and the holy martyrs with their blood. \\n\\nSaint Elijah Minyatii expresses that anyone who walks with pride and arrogance will not be able to proceed unless they lower themselves in humility: narrow is the gate and narrow is the way! Those who are satisfied with earthly possessions will not enter, unless they subject their bodies to fasting and labor: narrow is the gate and narrow is the way! Those burdened with unnecessary possessions, who do not share with their neighbors, will also struggle unless they reduce their hoard: narrow is the gate and narrow is the way! Entry into Paradise requires much toil, sweat, and endurance through suffering: through many tribulations we must enter the Kingdom of God (Acts 14:22). Anyone who seeks comfort and ease, who cannot withstand a single word of criticism, will not find their way into Paradise: the gate there is narrow and the way is arduous. \\n\\nAnd few, the Saviour notes (oh, how few there are), will discover it! Among those few, some are just beginning their journey, others are in the midst of it, while some fall at the very end. The path is undeniably narrow, but it is essential for anyone desiring to access the Kingdom of Heaven. You will not be granted entry wearing the old garment of sin; that must be discarded. In what manner, you ask? Blessed Augustine provides insight: ‘Observe the serpent: to shed its old skin, it must pass through a narrow opening. Where might such a narrow opening be found? Listen: the narrow gate of sorrows leads to life...’ The Venerable Theodora expressed that just as trees cannot yield fruit without enduring winter storms and rains, so too in this present age, which is akin to winter, we can only become heirs of the Kingdom of Heaven through numerous trials and tribulations.\\n\\nIf the journey to the Kingdom of Heaven is constricted, one may wonder why the Lord states elsewhere, My yoke is good and My burden is light? St. John Chrysostom poses this question and offers his own answer: ‘This path is indeed manageable, for it involves a way and a gate; on it, nothing stands still, as all sorrow and joy in life are fleeting. ‘The one who experiences offences,’ notes the blessed Theophylact, ‘is merely passing through gates. Likewise, the one who indulges in pleasures is just traveling a temporary road. Yet, since both conditions are transient, we should choose the better.’ \\n\\nBlessed Augustine explains that the gates to the Kingdom of Heaven are not inherently narrow; rather, we constrict them through our pride, leading us to despair over our inability to enter, lamenting the barriers. How might we ease our souls? We must partake of the cup of humility, though it may be bitter, yet it is healing. ‘As water that is constrained rises, so too does the soul, pressed by troubles and through repentance rise to God and find salvation,’ declares the Venerable John the Ladder-bearer. Thus, a God-fearing woman, overwhelmed with sorrow, when questioned by an elder about her tears, replied, ‘I weep because I have forgotten God, and God has forgotten me; for three years, due to my sins, He has not sent me any sorrow...’ She viewed tribulation as a profound mercy from God. St. Paul referred to tribulation as light, as St. Chrysostom interprets, not because of the adversity itself, but due to the resolve of ascetics and the hope for future blessings. Therefore, let us not despair when we encounter misfortunes along the way of life. The Lord labeled the path as difficult to rouse wandering souls from their slumber. While the way may be unfortunate and the gates narrow, the destination they lead to is anything but!"},{"author-name":"Justinus (Polianski)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8910e8cf0554bdb256030_Justinus%20(Polianski).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"In accordance with this directive, the slender gate and the restricted path that our Lord traversed during His time on earth represent the sole access point to the kingdom of glory and everlasting joy. Yet, many among us wander thoughtlessly and boldly along the spacious route, oblivious to the peril of heading toward ruin, either through ignorance or by neglecting this commandment. Conversely, only a small number of the chosen remain steadfast in their remembrance of the narrow path pointed out by the Savior, actively endeavoring to pursue it toward the heavenly kingdom."},{"author-name":"Philaret (Amphiteatrov)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896e9b7a2ebaf99e4620a_Philaret%20(Amphiteatrov).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The doors to the Kingdom of Heaven were once accessible to the people on earth, as they lived by the Lord's commandments in a state of blessedness, maintaining their angelic purity and innocence. No one could have closed these doors had they remained loyal to their Creator and resisted the wicked temptations of Satan, their adversary and our joy. However, the transgression they committed severed their connection with the Holy Spirit, introducing the poison of death and ruin into the very essence of humanity. Consequently, according to the unchanging law of God's justice, the gates of heaven, which signify eternal life, have been barred to them and their descendants. Who could reopen them, if not the Lord of heaven and earth, the Life Giver, the only begotten Son of God, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who appeared in the flesh? Through His death, He eliminated the sting of sin's death and, by the miraculous power of His resurrection, shattered the gates of hell. By His divine blood, He purified the hearts of believers from sin’s defilement and offered Himself as an atoning sacrifice for humanity’s transgressions. As the eternal Advocate and High Priest, He ascended into heaven so that God’s presence might intercede for us (Hebrews 9:24). He opened the gates of the Kingdom of Heaven for all, demonstrating through His holy life the path to eternal existence. These gates, opened by Him, can never be closed against us if we remain loyal to His commandments and choose to persistently walk in the way of the saints (Hebrews 9:8), guided by our eternal Shepherd. The entrance that calls us, dear brethren, to eternal life is narrow. Just as one must discard excess garments to pass through a tight opening, we must likewise shed our old sinful selves (Eph. 4:22) along with their corruptions. This requires relentless effort to overcome the passions and sinful inclinations bred by sin. Strive to enter by the narrow gate (Luke 13:24), the Savior urges. Forsaking a sinful existence and committing to a life of holiness and virtue as prescribed in the Gospel is essential for salvation. The salvation, wrought by the blood of Jesus Christ, reveals that God, in His infinite compassion, has provided us with every opportunity and the grace needed to transform from sinners into saints and inherit the Kingdom of Heaven. As St. Paul states, the grace of God has been made evident. The Apostle Paul admonishes us to reject ungodliness and worldly desires, living uprightly, righteously, and devoutly in this present age while we eagerly await the hope and revelation of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all iniquity and purify for Himself a people who are zealous for good works (Titus 2:11-14). All His divine abilities for life and godliness are imparted through the knowledge of Him who called us by His glory and virtue. Thus, we are promised an honorable and magnificent prospect: that we may share in the Divine nature, having escaped the desires of the world (2 Pet. 1:3, 4), asserts St. Peter. Nothing unclean will enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Rev. 21:27), the immutable word of the Lord declares. It is reserved for those who, by faithfully observing the Lord's commandments, have maintained the purity bestowed upon each Christian through the grace of baptism, or for those who, having squandered this invaluable gift due to their sins, have reclaimed it through true repentance and the diligent transformation of their hearts and lives in accordance with His precepts. There is no other gate, nor any other path to eternal life, as the Lord Jesus, our Guide to Heaven, has laid before us the route of humility, diligence, patience — in essence, the path of the Cross, the one true way of the saints. The gate is narrow, and the way is constricted that leads to life, and few find it. Conversely, the broad gate and the wide path symbolize the life of sinners, lived not in accordance with the spirit and commandments of the Gospel, but rather based on the corrupt inclinations of our nature and the spirit of a world ensnared by evil (1 John 5:19), manipulated by the deceiver of souls, the enemy of our salvation. The broad gates are for those who enter without striving to conquer their passions and cleanse their souls from all sin through fasting, prayer, repentance, and adherence to all of the Lord's commandments, thus yielding themselves to their lustful temptations. This path is expansive, for those who traverse it indulge in excess, luxury, and worldly amusements, paying little heed to the salvation of their souls. The tempter employs every trickery to entice them to remain on this course, presenting various enticing images that spark fleshly desires, material greed, and prideful ambitions (1 John 2:16). Yet these wide gates and this expansive road lead to inevitable destruction, as declared by the eternal Truth itself. With profound compassion, the Savior observes many treading the path of ruin, while few discover the narrow road of salvation and life. He watches them and, with boundless patience, waits for their conversion, warning His faithful followers to avoid emulating the many who are lost. This warning is crucial for nothing sways the hearts of individuals, even those with good intentions toward a Christian life who lack experienced, unwavering faith in Christ, quite like the misleading example of the crowd. The tempter frequently succeeds in weakening our determination to turn back to God, trying to convince us that the narrow path of salvation, opened by Jesus Christ, is unattainable, and portraying the genuinely pious and virtuous Christian life as filled with sorrow and hardship. However, true prosperity and joy on earth belong to the virtuous and the saints who endeavor to uphold the Lord's commandments. The Savior invites, “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). Hearken, brethren, to the compassionate voice of boundless love, as our Redeemer undertakes the divine labor for our salvation, making our virtuous and godly life joyful. He bore our sins so that His saving commandments may rest lightly upon us. Can His infinitely loving heart impose burdensome commands? His commandments are not burdensome (1 John 5:3), declares His beloved disciple John. Why do many find them so? Perhaps because we are reluctant to learn meekness and humility solely from Him. Feeling the weight of our sins, we fail to approach Him with a contrite heart to lay down the heavy yoke of sin at His cross. In essence, we do not love Him as we ought, if we truly seek salvation and life in Him. When we love Him with all our heart, following Him becomes easier, and the sorrows encountered along the path of the cross turn sweet. In the grand scheme, how insignificant are the temporary trials and labor we experience compared to the promise of eternal joy and glory afforded to us by our Lord Jesus! Is it befitting for a soldier of an earthly king to falter amid the challenges of battle, especially when victory is assured? Brothers and soldiers of Christ, it is better to perish heroically on the journey to eternal life and glory than to live in negligence and indifference towards the salvation of our souls, which lead to destruction."}]}
Support this project and get full access for only 4$/month
Commentarie text can’t be scrolled on PC at the moment. Please use your phone. We’re working on a fix.
