Strive for the Narrow Door (Luke 13)

Reformed & Expository Preaching

Jesus reminds us that we often ask the wrong questions, which leads us away from the truth. Instead of asking, “Have I done enough?” we should be asking if we are truly striving to enter through the narrow door on Christ’s terms. Many assume they are in good standing with God, much like thinking they are a luxury car with minor flaws. However, the reality is far worse—we are broken beyond repair, and without Christ’s redemption, we have no hope. Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem highlights this truth, as he heads toward suffering and rejection, his followers think he will seize glory and sit on Jerusalem’s throne. Truly then the city will live up to its name: the vision of peace. However, Christ is not traveling to sit on an earthly throne, but the heavenly one that he must attain through the cross and resurrection after living a perfect life.

Along the way, someone asks how many will be saved, but Jesus does not answer directly. Instead, he calls for striving, which is an active pursuit of the narrow way. Salvation is not a matter of national identity or religious association but of genuine commitment to Christ.

Jesus warns that the narrow door will not always remain open. Many will assume they are part of his kingdom because they have dined at his table, listened to his teaching, worshipped him, and were part of the right gene pool. But when the door closes, they will find themselves outside, rejected as evildoers. This is not about blatant immorality—it is about those who thought they knew Christ but were never truly known by him. The frightening reality is that many who expect to be inside will be cast out, while others from the ends of the earth—unexpected outsiders—will be welcomed into the kingdom. This dramatic reversal echoes Isaiah’s prophecy of a great feast in Isaiah 25, where those who trust in the Lord will rejoice while others suffer separation from him. The warning is clear: entering through the narrow door requires striving, humility, and submission to Christ, not mere outward association with him.

Ultimately, the real question is not about numbers or who gets in but whether we are truly hearing and submitting to Christ. The last will be first, and the first will be last—not because of human effort but because God’s kingdom operates by his grace, not our merit. It is not about checking religious boxes or assuming we are safe; it is about seeking Christ wholeheartedly, being transformed by him, and knowing that only enters through the narrow door in Christ This is not easy, nor is it natural—it requires humility, dependence, and a willingness to be shaped by God’s will rather than our own desires. The danger is not in failing to do enough good works but in failing to recognize our deep need for Christ and his redeeming grace. Therefore, the call is clear: strive, listen to Christ’s word, and pursue Christ, for the door will not always remain open. The heavenly feast is only for those who bow their necks under Christ’s yoke. Let us follow our redeemer savior, who graciously pursues.