What This Famous Biblical Phrase Really Means in Everyday Language
Introduction
You might have heard the phrase “straight is the gate” and wondered about its actual meaning. Most often, what people really mean is the biblical phrase: “strait is the gate, and narrow is the way.” This comes from the New Testament, specifically Matthew 7:14. Let’s break down what this phrase means, both in its biblical sense and how it’s used more broadly, in simple terms anyone can understand.
The Two Paths in Life
Jesus used the image of two different paths to explain important choices we all face in life. He talked about a “wide gate and broad way” that leads to destruction and a “small gate and narrow way” that leads to life. Basically, he’s saying that there are two main directions you can take:
· The Wide Path: This is the easy, popular route. It doesn’t require much effort or sacrifice, and a lot of people choose it. But, according to the Bible, it ultimately leads to a bad end—destruction.
· The Narrow Path: This way is hard and not many people choose it. It means making tough choices, sometimes going against what’s popular, and living in a way that’s intentional and righteous. But it leads to true life—both now and forever.
What Does “Strait” Mean?
The word “strait” here doesn’t mean “straight” as in a straight line. It means something tight, narrow, or difficult—like a path squeezed between two walls or rocks. Picture a narrow mountain path where you have to walk carefully. That’s the image Jesus wanted us to have.
Why Is the Narrow Way Important?
Choosing the narrow way isn’t just about following rules; it’s about choosing a way of life that’s thoughtful, disciplined, and focused on doing what’s right, even when it’s tough or unpopular. The Bible says that this path “leads to life.” In other words, it offers a kind of happiness and peace that lasts—not just for now, but for eternity.
Few Find the Narrow Way
One of the sad truths mentioned in the Bible is that not many people find this narrow way. Most people go with the crowd and do what’s easy. But the challenge is for each of us to ask ourselves: Am I willing to choose the harder path if it means doing what’s right?
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
This teaching isn’t just about religious rules—it’s a lesson for life. It encourages us to treat others as we’d like to be treated, to think carefully about our choices, and to stand firm in our values, even if we’re in the minority. It’s a reminder that there are really only two ways to live: one that leads toward good things (life), and one that doesn’t (destruction).
Strait Is the Gate in Literature
The phrase is also the title of a novel by André Gide, which explores themes of strict religious living and the challenges of love and personal happiness. But, in everyday conversation, it still refers back to the idea of making difficult but worthwhile choices.
Conclusion
So, “strait is the gate, and narrow is the way” isn’t talking about walking in a straight line. It’s about making deliberate, sometimes tough choices that lead to a meaningful and lasting life. While the easy road might look tempting, the harder path is the one that really matters in the end.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 