
Strive for the Narrow Door (Luke 13)
Jesus warns that we tend to ask the wrong question in our redemption. We tend to focus on whether they have done enough rather than whether they are striving to enter through the narrow door on Christ’s terms. Many assume they are spiritually secure, but without Christ’s redemption, they are lost. As Jesus journeys to Jerusalem, his followers expect earthly glory, yet he moves toward suffering, the cross, and ultimate victory through resurrection. This will happen in the city called the Vision of Shalom (peace) or Jerusalem. The issue posed to Jesus is how many will be saved rather than how one can be saved. Jesus calls for striving, emphasizing that salvation is not about religious heritage or outward association but a true commitment to him. The narrow door will not remain open forever, and many who assume they belong to God’s kingdom will be shut out, while unexpected outsiders will be welcomed in. This great reversal fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy (Isaiah 25) of God’s feast, where only those who humbly trust in Christ will rejoice. Ultimately, salvation is not about human effort or religious status but about submitting to Christ and recognizing our need for his redeeming grace before the door closes.
