The Narrow Way: Finding Salvation and Life in Christ

Matthew 7:13-14

2: John 14:6

Psalm 119:105

Luke 9:23

Romans 12:2

Matthew 16:24

Proverbs 3:5-6

1 Peter 2:21

 

The Narrow Way: Finding Salvation and Life in Christ 

 With Bishop Ronald K. Powell 

Introduction: 

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today I want to speak to you about the narrow way—the path that leads to salvation and eternal life in Jesus Christ.  

In a world filled with distractions, temptations, and false teachings, it is crucial for us to understand the importance of walking on the narrow path that God has set before us. Let us delve into the Scriptures and discover the significance of this narrow way. 

  

Scripture Passage 1: Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV) “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” 

  

Explanation: 

Jesus Himself spoke about the narrow way in His Sermon on the Mount. He warns us of the danger of following the broad and easy path that leads to destruction. Many people choose this path, which accommodates their desires and worldly ambitions. However, Jesus calls us to enter through the narrow gate, to walk on the difficult but rewarding road that leads to life. This narrow way is not popular, but it is the way of righteousness, obedience, and surrender to God. 

  

Scripture Passage 2: John 14:6 (NIV) 

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'” 

  

Explanation: 

In this profound statement, Jesus declares that He is the only way to the Father. He is the narrow gate through which we must enter. The narrow way is not merely a set of rules or religious practices, but a person—Jesus Christ Himself. He is the way, the truth, and the life. It is through a personal relationship with Him that we find salvation, forgiveness, and eternal life. By following Jesus, we are led on the path of righteousness and transformation. 

  

Scripture Passage 3: Psalm 119:105 (NIV) “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” 

  

Explanation: 

God’s Word, the Bible, serves as a lamp for our feet and a light on the narrow path. It provides guidance, wisdom, and discernment as we navigate through the challenges and temptations of life. By consistently studying and meditating on God’s Word, we receive divine direction and understanding. The Scriptures illuminate the narrow way before us, helping us to discern between truth and falsehood, righteousness and sin. 

  

Scripture Passage 4: Luke 9:23 (NIV) 

“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'” 

   

Explanation: 

To walk on the narrow path, we must deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus daily. This requires self-sacrifice, surrendering our will and desires to God’s will. It means putting Jesus first in every area of our lives and allowing Him to shape and mold us. Following Jesus involves obedience, perseverance, and a willingness to endure trials and hardships for His sake. As we walk in His footsteps, we grow in intimacy with Him and become more like Him. 

 

 Scripture Passage 5: Romans 12:2 (NIV) 

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” 

  

Explanation: 

As followers of Christ, we are called to break free from the conformity of this world. The narrow way requires us to have a transformed mind—one that is aligned with the truths of God’s Word. We must reject the values, attitudes, and sinful practices of the world and allow the Holy Spirit to renew our minds. This transformation enables us to discern and embrace God’s perfect will for our lives. 

  

Scripture Passage 6: Matthew 16:24 (NIV) “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'” 

  

Explanation: 

Taking up our cross daily is an essential aspect of walking on the narrow way. It signifies a willingness to bear the burdens, sufferings, and challenges that come with following Jesus. Just as Jesus willingly carried His cross for the sake of humanity, we are called to surrender our lives completely to Him. This involves sacrificing our own ambitions, comforts, and desires for the sake of His kingdom. 

  

Scripture Passage 7: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” 

  

Explanation: 

Trusting in the Lord is vital as we navigate the narrow way. We must acknowledge that our own understanding is limited and flawed. Instead, we are called to place our complete trust in God’s wisdom, guidance, and faithfulness. By submitting our ways to Him, surrendering our plans and desires, He promises to lead us on a straight and righteous path. 

  

Scripture Passage 8: 1 Peter 2:21 (NIV) 

“To this you were called because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.” 

  

Explanation: 

Jesus suffered on our behalf, leaving us an example to follow. The narrow way often involves hardship, persecution, and trials. However, we can find encouragement in knowing that Jesus walked this path before us. By following His example of perseverance, humility, and obedience, we can overcome obstacles and endure in faith. Our suffering in this life is temporary, but the reward of eternal life with Him is immeasurable. 

  

Conclusion: 

Dear brothers and sisters, the narrow way requires us to make a conscious choice—to enter through the narrow gate, to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, and to live according to His teachings. It is a path of self-denial, trust, transformation, and perseverance. As we walk on this path, we are not alone. The Holy Spirit empowers and guides us, and our Heavenly Father delights in our obedience. May we embrace the narrow way with joy, knowing that it leads to eternal life in the presence of our Savior.