Few or many? The answer from Jesus has always been surprising
By Dean Collins
My Texas friends may disagree, but I am pretty sure that bigger isn’t always better. But I will concede that we do often think that way. For instance, who doesn’t think a bigger balance in their checking or savings account is better than a smaller one? Presented with the opportunity to choose few or many, who wouldn’t want the latter?
But as Jesus explained the kingdom of God, at least one person noticed that while Jesus was generous in feeding thousands and doing various miracles of restoration and healing, some of his lessons suggested that following him would come with difficulty.
Jesus taught on one occasion that family members won’t always be on the same page concerning Jesus (Luke 12:51-53). Jesus added that faith as small as a mustard seed would produce bigger results, and that just a little yeast changes the whole loaf. His teaching suggested that even a little bad influence can have negative impact, just as small infusions of love and kindness can have significant impact as well.
Someone who had been listening to Jesus asked a hard question: “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” (Luke 13:22). Jesus answered but didn’t commit to whether the number would be a few or many. What he did say was that we should strive to enter his kingdom through the “narrow door.” I suspect if we were writing the marketing plan for Jesus, we would probably have answered differently. Wouldn’t a big, wide entrance make it easier for people to buy into God’s plan?
I have been in several tight spots in life, and they are never fun. But I have learned that navigating tough times does force me to think and act differently. And the main thing tough circumstances do is bring us to a place of surrender to God as our source of life and hope. Maybe that is exactly why Jesus answered the way he did when asked if only a few would be saved.
The way to destruction
All of Scripture teaches us that God loves everyone and loves all of his creation. He loves us so much that he sent his only Son to redeem and restore everything to the perfect design he put in place at creation. To be a part of his kingdom requires our surrender. And all of us struggle with wanting to keep control because of our stubborn pride that tells us we can make it on our own.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made a point that may help us understand his answer to the man who asked if few would enter the kingdom. According to Jesus, the wide gate is easier to navigate. The problem is that while it is easier to get through a wide entrance, the road on the other side leads to destruction. On the other hand, when we accept Jesus and walk (or better, bow down) to enter the smaller gate, we reveal a humility that admits we are not the god of anything. Humility before our Creator always will lead us to the kind of kingdom influence that will draw others to Jesus.
As citizens in the kingdom of God, we are called to be ambassadors for the king. We are to reflect his kindness, love, and generosity to everyone. By entering the narrow gate we will be called to make sacrifices. However, the sacrifices we make result in discovering abundant life now and for eternity.
Lord, we confess we would prefer things to be easy. We often resist your gifts because we stubbornly think we can do better on our own. Forgive us of our pride. Today we choose to walk through the narrow gate of obedience, trusting that your ways are better than ours. Use our humble service to bring life to someone in need today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Your time with God’s Word
Luke 13:22-30; Matthew 7:13-14 ESV
Photos by Elijah Mears Dan Dennis on Unsplash
To receive daily posts delivered directly to your inbox, complete the form at the bottom of our home page.
