Luke 13:24

24 "Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able.

Luke 13:24 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 13:24

Strive to enter in at the strait gate
What is meant by the strait gate, and by entering in at it, (See Gill on Matthew 7:13). To "strive", is to be diligent in the use of means; to search the Scriptures with care; to attend on the preaching of the word with constancy, neglecting no opportunity; to pray earnestly for spiritual light, knowledge, and grace; to contend with every enemy that opposes the salvation of the soul, as sin, Satan, and the world; to bear all reproaches and persecutions, and press through all difficulties, for the prize of the incorruptible crown: the metaphor seems to be taken from the striving, wrestling, and combat in the Olympic games, for a corruptible crown:

for many I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be
able:
either when it is too late, when the door is shut; or else before, very faintly, in a superficial manner, from a mere natural affection, from a principle of self-love, which leads every one to desire happiness; and by very indirect and improper methods, by their own civility, morality, and righteousness; by works of the law, moral, or ceremonial; or by a profession of religion, and an outward compliance with the ordinances of the Gospel, and not by Christ, and faith in him.

Luke 13:24 In-Context

22 Jesus went through one town and village after another, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem.

23 Someone asked him, "Lord, will only a few be saved?" He said to them,

24 "Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able.

25 When once the owner of the house has got up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, "Lord, open to us,' then in reply he will say to you, "I do not know where you come from.'

26 Then you will begin to say, "We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.'