The Narrow Pathway

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:13-14 ESV)

Every day, every Christian is called to walk the narrow pathway of faith until the day they die, or until Jesus Christ returns. On either side of this pathway are deep abysses that lead only to spiritual death. On one side is the abyss of self-righteousness, on the other is the abyss of despair. The abyss of self-righteousness is filled with the belief that there must be something that one has to do to be saved. The abyss of despair is filled with the belief that there is not enough of God’s forgiveness to cover one’s most grievous sins.

A true Christian’s life has two core dimensions: faith and good works. In the secular world, good works have, and always will be, valued more than faith. While it’s true that Christians are supposed to do good works in Christ’s name, we should be very careful that we don’t elevate our good works to such a level that our faith in Jesus Christ becomes secondary to them. If we hold our good works in too high of an esteem, they can easily become a great idol that we praise instead of rightfully praising God and His perfect works.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8-10 ESV)

Jesus is the only way, the only truth, and the only life (John 14:6). First and foremost, faith comes from the Holy Spirit. After faith, good works should follow. You will always recognize a true Christian by the fruits of their faith (Matthew 7:15-20). Faith alone in Jesus Christ will take us to heaven, despite our works. So, beware of the abyss of self-righteousness, lest you stumble off the narrow pathway into it.

Through the suffering and death of Jesus Christ on the cross and His resurrection from the grave, Christ fully completed the work of our redemption and salvation. Christ took every single sin onto Himself and to the cross where they died with Him, defeating sin and the devil once and for all. Then Jesus rose from the grave, defeating death once and for all. Salvation is always present because His work of it is finished. Follow Christ’s voice to sincere repentance and belief in Him and you will be saved. There is no sin too big for God’s forgiveness. So, beware of the abyss of despair, lest you stumble off the narrow pathway into it.

Soli Deo Gloria!

(Published on the Devotional Page of the Alpine Avalanche Newspaper on Thurs, Oct 5, 2023)