Matthew 7:14 Meaning and Explanation
“Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Context of Matthew 7:14
This verse completes the two-ways contrast in the Sermon on the Mount, underscoring that the path to life requires deliberate seeking.
What Does Matthew 7:14 Mean?
Jesus explains that the gate to life is narrow and the road demanding, so that only a few actually find it. This completes the contrast begun in the previous verse: against the broad, crowded way to destruction stands a constricted gate and a narrow path leading to life. The word "find" is striking. It suggests that this way is discovered by those who seek it, rather than stumbled upon by accident. Jesus does not soften the truth that the faithful are often a minority; the way of discipleship has always required intention, perseverance, and a willingness to be different from the crowd. Yet the destination redeems every difficulty: this hard road "leadeth unto life." The narrowness is the shape of a path defined by following Christ, who is Himself the way, never arbitrary harshness. To "find" this gate is to respond to His call and walk in His steps. The verse is both a sober warning and a hopeful summons: the road is narrow, but it leads home, and those who seek it will find it.
Matthew 7:14 in the Original Language
The Greek thlibo, behind "narrow," carries the sense of being pressed or compressed, describing a way hemmed in and demanding.
Bible Verses Related to Matthew 7:14
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
- John 14:6
“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:”
- Matthew 7:13
“For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD.”
- Proverbs 8:35
How to Apply Matthew 7:14 Today
Seek the way of life with deliberate intent, willing to walk a path that is demanding because it leads to true and lasting life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 7:14
What does Matthew 7:14 mean?
Jesus explains that the gate to life is narrow and the road demanding, so that only a few actually find it. This completes the contrast begun in the previous verse: against the broad, crowded way to destruction stands a constricted gate and a narrow path leading to life. The word "find" is striking. It suggests that this way is discovered by those who seek it, rather than stumbled upon by accident. Jesus does not soften the truth that the faithful are often a minority; the way of discipleship has always required intention, perseverance, and a willingness to be different from the crowd. Yet the destination redeems every difficulty: this hard road "leadeth unto life." The narrowness is the shape of a path defined by following Christ, who is Himself the way, never arbitrary harshness. To "find" this gate is to respond to His call and walk in His steps. The verse is both a sober warning and a hopeful summons: the road is narrow, but it leads home, and those who seek it will find it.
What is the context of Matthew 7:14?
This verse completes the two-ways contrast in the Sermon on the Mount, underscoring that the path to life requires deliberate seeking.
How can I apply Matthew 7:14 today?
Seek the way of life with deliberate intent, willing to walk a path that is demanding because it leads to true and lasting life.