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Luke 13:24
Verse
Context
The Narrow Door
23“Lord,” someone asked Him, “will only a few people be saved?” Jesus answered,24“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. 25After the master of the house gets up and shuts the door, you will stand outside knocking and saying, ‘Lord, open the door for us.’ But he will reply, ‘I do not know where you are from.’
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Many - will seek - They seek - wish and desire; but they do not strive; therefore, because they will not agonize - will not be in earnest, they shall not get in. See this subject more particularly explained on Mat 7:13, Mat 7:14 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Strive--The word signifies to "contend" as for the mastery, to "struggle," expressive of the difficulty of being saved, as if one would have to force his way in. strait gate--another figure of the same. (See on Mat 7:13-14). for many . . . will seek--"desire," that is, with a mere wish or slothful endeavor. and shall not be able--because it must be made a life-and-death struggle.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When once the master of the house is risen up,.... From table, or off of his couch, the entertainment being over: and so here, the Gospel feast, or dispensation, being at an end, and all the guests come in, who were effectually called, and long patience and forbearance being used towards others; or has entered in, as the Vulgate Latin version reads, and so Beza's ancient copy, and one of Stephens's; is come from the wedding; see Luk 12:36 Christ having espoused all his elect to himself, by the ministry of the word: for by "the master of the house" is meant, the bridegroom of the church, the head of the body, the King of saints, who is Son over his own house, and high priest there; of whom the whole family in heaven and earth, is named: and hath shut to the door; the door of mercy and of hope; the door of faith; the preaching of the word, and the administration of ordinances, when these shall be no more: and ye begin to stand without; or "do stand without"; without the holy city, where dogs are; having no admittance to the nuptial chamber, to the marriage supper of the Lamb, and the joys of heaven: and to knock at the door; which shows how near some persons may come to heaven, and yet not enter there, even to the very door; and what an expectation, yea, an assurance they may have, of admission into it, not at all doubting of it; and therefore knock as if they were some of the family, and had a right to enter; but not finding the door opened to them, so soon as they imagined, they begin to call as well as knock: saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; they acknowledge Christ to be Lord, as all will at the last day, to the glory of God the Father, even professors and profane; they repeat the word, to show the vehemency and earnestness of their entreaty; and according to the Syriac and, Persic versions, they claim an interest in Christ, which read, "our Lord, our Lord"; and on account of which they doubted not, but the door would be opened: but alas! he was only their Lord in a professional way; they had only called him Lord, Lord, but had never truly and heartily yielded obedience to him; their hearts had never been opened to him, and he had never had a place there, nor his Gospel; wherefore though they knock, he will not open; and he shall answer and say unto you. The Persic version adds, "nay, but be ye gone hence", for the following reason, I know you not, whence you are: not but that Christ being the omniscient God, will know who they are, from whence they come, of what country and place they be, and to whom they belong; but the sense is, that he will not own them, and express any approbation of them, as his; but will treat them as strangers, that come, it is not known, from whence; he will reject them, as not being born from above, as not being the sheep of his fold, or members of his true church: they did not come from heaven, they were not heaven born souls, or partakers of the heavenly calling, and therefore shall not be received there; they belonged to the men of the world, and were of their father the devil, and shall be sent to him: so the foolish virgins, or formal professors of religion, and such as have been preachers of the Gospel, will entreat Christ at the last day, and shall have such an answer as this returned to them, which will be very awful and startling; See Gill on Mat 7:23, Mat 25:12.
Luke 13:24
The Narrow Door
23“Lord,” someone asked Him, “will only a few people be saved?” Jesus answered,24“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. 25After the master of the house gets up and shuts the door, you will stand outside knocking and saying, ‘Lord, open the door for us.’ But he will reply, ‘I do not know where you are from.’
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Sin That Has No Forgiveness
By William P. Nicholson3.5K00:00PRO 29:1JER 8:20MAT 7:21LUK 13:24ROM 10:9In this sermon, the preacher expresses his frustration and desperation in trying to bring people to Christ. He emphasizes that he has done everything he can to warn and save souls, without seeking personal gain or favor. The preacher warns the audience about the consequences of rejecting God's offer of mercy and resisting the Holy Spirit. He shares a story from the Civil War to illustrate the urgency of accepting salvation before it is too late. The sermon also addresses the seriousness of taking part in religious rituals without true faith and warns against the dangers of forgetting God and harboring hatred in one's heart.
The Violent Take the Kingdom of Heaven by Force
By Aaron Hurst2.1K1:07:57Powerful PrayingMAT 7:13MAT 7:21MAT 11:12MAT 13:41MAT 25:10LUK 13:24LUK 16:16In this sermon, Brother Denny emphasizes the importance of being diligent and vigilant in our pursuit of the kingdom of God. He contrasts the violent opposition faced by Christians in China with the lethargy and easy believism prevalent in our own land. He challenges both Christians and non-Christians to press in and make a forceful effort to enter into the kingdom. Brother Denny uses the example of sitting at ease in a meeting house as a symbol of indifference and urges listeners to be wholehearted in their pursuit of God.
What Love Is This? - Part 5
By Dave Hunt2.0K09:49PSA 86:15MIC 6:8LUK 13:24ROM 11:321CO 13:41JN 2:6This sermon delves into the historical context of divisions within Christianity, focusing on the Council of Nicaea and the controversies surrounding believers who renounced Christ under persecution. It contrasts the views of Augustine and Adonitus on the purity of the church, highlighting the extreme measures taken by figures like John Calvin in Geneva. The core theological debate centers on the concept of God's love for all versus the Calvinist doctrine of predestination and limited atonement, questioning the nature of God's mercy and kindness.
Earthquake: Why the Horror in Haiti?
By David Legge1.7K40:39Current EventsMAT 5:1MAT 7:28LUK 13:1LUK 13:18LUK 13:24In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story of a man who sold his blood to buy an overhead projector to share the gospel in a tribal area. The speaker emphasizes that this story should serve as a wake-up call for believers, reminding them of their purpose. They quote C.S. Lewis, stating that pain is God's megaphone to wake up those who are spiritually asleep. The speaker also acknowledges that many questions about suffering and tragedy are unanswerable, but encourages humility in admitting that we don't know everything. They conclude by highlighting the tragic reality that thousands of people die daily and urging listeners to consider the brevity of life and the certainty of death.
Religious but Lost - Professing Christians in Hell
By John Musser1.5K44:03False ConversionMAT 7:13MAT 13:24MAT 25:1LUK 13:241PE 1:22PE 1:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the prominent theme of the disciples, including James, Hebrews, and Jesus, which is the end of the age and the separation of the righteous from the false believers. Jesus used parables such as the ten virgins and the dragnet to teach about this concept. The preacher also highlights the issues faced by the Corinthians, including incest, party spirit, and jealousy, which led Paul to write them a letter. The sermon emphasizes the importance of the gospel, which is the good news of Jesus' death and resurrection, and the conditional aspect of salvation. The preacher also references 1 Peter and 2 Peter, emphasizing the importance of the word of God and the commandments for Christians to strive for virtues and Christ-likeness.
Few Find the Way to Life - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.4K09:43PRO 4:23MAT 7:13MAT 19:24MRK 10:21LUK 13:24GAL 6:71TI 2:3HEB 12:15JAS 4:8This sermon addresses the phenomenon of mega-churches and questions whether all individuals in these large congregations are truly saved. It emphasizes the importance of personal striving for salvation and highlights the need for individual commitment and repentance, rather than relying solely on the size of a church or the words of a pastor. The message stresses the urgency of entering through the narrow door and making decisions that align with God's will, as each decision sows seeds that will eventually be reaped.
Resting and Wrestling for the Cause of Christ—together
By John Piper1.3K43:30PSA 133:1MAT 11:28LUK 13:24JHN 12:25ACT 20:28ROM 15:30EPH 4:12HEB 10:24This sermon emphasizes the importance of healthy biblical doctrine and loving relationships within the body of Christ. It highlights the significance of small groups in fostering these relationships and the need for believers to strive together in prayer, wrestle against spiritual battles, and find rest and refreshment in community. The message encourages participation in small groups for mutual encouragement, sharing burdens, and multiplying joys in the journey of faith.
Taking God Seriously
By Peter Masters88934:34MAT 7:7MAT 11:28LUK 13:24JHN 14:6ROM 3:28EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding what lies beyond the gate of salvation. He explains that the first thing that happens when someone goes through the gate and accepts Jesus Christ is a transformation. Although they are not immediately made perfect, they become a better person. The preacher then refers to Luke 13:24, where Jesus instructs believers to strive and struggle to enter through the narrow gate. He highlights the difficulty of finding the Lord and encourages listeners to take God seriously. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the significance of Christ's sacrifice for sinners and the need for humans to recognize their fallen state and accountability to God.
Called to Discipleship (P3)
By K.P. Yohannan78823:17DiscipleshipMAT 6:33MAT 10:37MAT 16:24MRK 8:34LUK 13:24LUK 14:33HEB 1:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to the needs of the world with compassion and action. He highlights the plight of millions of child laborers and challenges listeners to consider their response to such injustice. The speaker encourages believers to prioritize prayer and fasting for these communities and to sacrificially use their resources to reach the lost world. He also reminds listeners to live with an eternal perspective, making decisions in light of eternity. The sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to be Christ-like in their generation and to be a light and salt in the world.
A Wicked Generation Seeks After a Sign
By Shane Idleman75551:39MAT 12:39MAT 16:1LUK 13:24JHN 14:6ROM 1:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of a wicked and adulterous heart, focusing on the Pharisees and Sadducees seeking a sign from Jesus. It delves into the wrong attitudes, seeking after signs demandingly, and the need for genuine seeking of God. The message highlights the significance of surrendering to God, confronting evil hearts, and the pivotal role of the resurrection in validating Christ's claims and providing access to the Father.
The Open Door Set Before You
By Peter Orasuk60926:40MissionsMAT 7:7MAT 27:50LUK 13:24JHN 3:16JHN 10:91TI 1:15REV 3:8In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about five young men in East Berlin who were desperate to be free from the captivity of communism. They pooled their resources and made plans to escape through the iron curtain. They bribed a tower guard to hold his light for an extra two minutes, giving them a chance to get through the barbed wire corridor. However, to their horror, they discovered that there was no opening on the other side, leaving them trapped. The preacher uses this story to illustrate how man is held captive by sin and the need for salvation through Jesus Christ.
Being Saved: Coming Home
By Stewart Ruch31923:39Christian LifeMAT 7:13MAT 10:34LUK 12:51LUK 13:24JHN 14:6ACT 4:12ROM 10:9In this sermon, Bishop Stuart Ruck explores the concept of leaving the world in the same way we entered it. He emphasizes the vulnerability and helplessness of newborns, drawing a parallel to how we will leave this world when we die. The sermon highlights the importance of understanding this truth intellectually and emotionally, and how it relates to salvation. Bishop Ruck uses the metaphor of coming home to illustrate the process of getting saved, emphasizing the role of Jesus as the loving and responsible leader.
Seeking God's Help With Perseverance (Mt. 7:7-14)
By Mike Bickle1357:07Perseverance in PrayerLoving OthersMAT 5:3MAT 7:7MAT 11:30MAT 16:24MAT 22:37LUK 13:24JHN 15:5EPH 6:18HEB 4:16JAS 4:6Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of seeking God's help with confidence and perseverance, particularly in the context of relational tensions. He explains that Jesus encourages us to ask, seek, and knock continuously, assuring us that God will respond to our persistent prayers. Bickle highlights that our relationship with God requires ongoing dialogue and effort, especially when faced with criticism or challenges from others. He connects the act of seeking God with the necessity of loving others, illustrating that our spiritual breakthroughs are intertwined with our ability to love those around us. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a deeper commitment to prayer and relationship with God to navigate life's difficulties and relational conflicts.
Luke 13
By John Nelson Darby0RepentanceJudgment and GraceEXO 34:5PSA 118:1PSA 132:13EZK 15:6MAT 7:19LUK 13:3LUK 13:24JHN 16:2ROM 11:5GAL 6:7John Nelson Darby discusses the distinction between the church of God and His governmental dealings with the world, emphasizing that while grace is evident in the church, God's justice and mercy are displayed in His governance. He uses Luke 13 to illustrate that judgment is imminent for those who do not repent, highlighting the need for personal accountability and the consequences of sin, as seen in the examples of Israel and David. Darby points out that the fig tree symbolizes Israel, which has failed to bear fruit, and he warns that without repentance, judgment will come. He also addresses the hypocrisy of the religious leaders who prioritize the law over compassion, and he concludes with the hope of grace for Israel's future repentance and restoration. Ultimately, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing Christ's authority and the necessity of faith in Him for salvation.
Luke 13:24
By Chuck Smith0SalvationRepentanceEZK 3:17LUK 13:24Chuck Smith emphasizes the urgency of striving to enter through the narrow gate as Jesus warns that many who believe they are saved may not be. He highlights the need for genuine effort in faith, cautioning against false assurances of salvation that can lead to eternal separation from God. Smith stresses that merely knowing scripture or participating in church activities is insufficient for salvation; true faith must be accompanied by a transformed life. He urges listeners to examine their lives and ensure they are not deceived into thinking they are right with God while living in sin. The sermon serves as a wake-up call to take the call to repentance seriously before it is too late.
Ah, Sirs!
By Thomas Brooks0EternityHolinessPSA 51:10MAT 7:13MAT 25:46LUK 13:24ROM 6:232CO 5:10HEB 12:14JAS 4:81PE 1:16REV 20:15Thomas Brooks passionately warns about the imminent reality of eternity and the urgency of seeking holiness. He emphasizes that time is fleeting, and the distance between the soul and eternal damnation is alarmingly short. Brooks calls for heartfelt prayer and mourning for holiness, stressing that without it, true happiness is unattainable and hell awaits. The sermon serves as a wake-up call to the listeners to reflect on their spiritual state and the necessity of pursuing a righteous life.
Nightclub Disasters: A Parable of Hell
By Art Katz0HellUrgency of SalvationPRO 14:12ISA 5:14MAT 7:13LUK 13:24JHN 3:36ROM 10:13HEB 3:15JAS 4:142PE 3:9REV 20:15Art Katz presents a vivid and alarming parable of hell through the metaphor of a nightclub disaster, where a moment of excitement transforms into chaos and despair. He emphasizes the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures, likening them to synthetic joy that can quickly turn into a nightmare, illustrating the urgency of recognizing the reality of hell. Katz challenges the complacency of those who dismiss the seriousness of salvation, urging listeners to consider their choices before it's too late. He calls for a genuine response to the invitation of salvation, reminding us that the opportunity to seek God may not always be available. The sermon serves as a stark warning against the dangers of indifference to spiritual matters.
Self-Exertion
By J.C. Ryle0SalvationPersonal ResponsibilityPRO 1:24MAT 11:12LUK 13:24JHN 10:9JHN 14:6EPH 3:12HEB 9:8JAS 5:202PE 3:91JN 3:4J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical importance of personal responsibility in seeking salvation through the 'narrow door' as taught by Jesus. He warns that many will attempt to enter but will not succeed, urging listeners to make every effort to pursue their spiritual well-being without delay. Ryle describes the narrow door as the only path to forgiveness and eternal life, highlighting the necessity of diligence, faith, and urgency in the Christian journey. He calls for a serious reflection on one's spiritual state and encourages believers to actively share the message of salvation with others. The preacher's message serves as a reminder of the urgency of faith and the consequences of spiritual neglect.
Self-Effort
By J.C. Ryle0SalvationPersonal ResponsibilityPRO 1:24MAT 11:12LUK 13:24JHN 10:9JHN 14:6EPH 3:12HEB 9:8JAS 5:202PE 3:91JN 3:4J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical importance of personal responsibility in seeking salvation through the 'narrow door' as taught by Jesus in Luke 13:24. He warns that many will attempt to enter but will ultimately be unable to, highlighting the urgency of making every effort to pursue a relationship with Christ. Ryle describes the narrow door as the only way to salvation, which requires diligence, sacrifice, and a sincere desire to turn away from sin. He encourages believers to actively share the message of salvation with others, reminding them of the fleeting nature of time and the certainty of Christ's return. The sermon serves as a call to action for all to enter through the narrow door without delay.
Salvation Difficult to the Christian, Impossible to the Sinner
By Charles Finney0Spiritual WarfareSalvationMAT 7:14LUK 13:24ROM 7:151PE 4:18Charles Finney emphasizes the stark contrast between the salvation of the righteous and the impossibility of salvation for the sinner, drawing from 1 Peter 4:18. He explains that while the righteous may be saved with difficulty, the sinner faces insurmountable challenges due to their moral state and the nature of God's governance. Finney elaborates on the complexities of human nature, the influence of sin, and the necessity of moral means for conversion, highlighting the profound struggles Christians face in their spiritual journey. He concludes by urging believers to remain vigilant and diligent in their faith, recognizing the significant obstacles that both the righteous and the wicked encounter in their paths to salvation.
The Conflict of the Christian
By Andrew Murray0Victory in ChristConflict of FaithEXO 14:142CH 20:15LUK 13:24EPH 6:101TI 6:122TI 4:71JN 5:4Andrew Murray emphasizes the twofold conflict of the Christian life, beginning with the immediate need for the unconverted to strive to enter through the narrow door of salvation. Once inside, believers face a lifelong battle characterized by faith, as they contend against spiritual enemies. Murray clarifies that true conflict arises not from struggling against God, but from the ongoing fight of faith, where believers must remain in Christ, their stronghold, to overcome. He highlights that victory comes through faith in Jesus, who empowers believers to stand firm against the enemy. Ultimately, the sermon calls Christians to understand their position in Christ and to rely on His strength for the battles they face.
Kadesh-Barnea Again
By J. Wilbur Chapman0DEU 1:19MAT 26:24MAT 27:24MRK 10:21LUK 13:24ACT 26:28HEB 3:7JAS 4:17REV 3:20J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the significance of Kadeshbarnea in Deuteronomy 1:19, drawing parallels between the missed opportunity of the children of Israel to enter the Promised Land due to lack of trust in God and the missed opportunities for salvation in the New Testament. He emphasizes the importance of wholehearted surrender to God, using examples of individuals like Herod, Pilate, Judas, Felix, and Agrippa who were 'almost persuaded' but failed to fully commit, leading to tragic consequences. Chapman warns against stopping at the 'Kadesh-barnea' moments in life, where one is close to salvation but hesitates, risking eternal loss.
Save Thyself
By Catherine Booth0MAT 7:13MRK 8:34LUK 13:24PHP 2:12JAS 4:7Catherine Booth preaches about the necessity of striving for Salvation, emphasizing the importance of human effort in overcoming obstacles to enter the Kingdom of God. She highlights the need to address personal hindrances such as secret sins, idols, worldly companionship, unlawful gain, frivolous reading, and indulgence in strong drink or worldly amusement that can prevent individuals from fully surrendering to Jesus. Catherine urges listeners to embrace the cross, make sacrifices, and strive to overcome these barriers in order to experience the peace, joy, and eternal life that come from following Christ.
People Pleasers
By Winkie Pratney0MAT 5:20MAT 6:33MAT 7:13MRK 8:38LUK 13:24JHN 5:39ACT 2:372CO 6:172CO 10:12Winkie Pratney preaches about the importance of not being a people-pleaser and the need to prioritize God's standards over the approval of others. He emphasizes the necessity of true faith and obedience to God's Word, even if it means losing the favor of the crowd. Pratney warns against hypocrisy and challenges listeners to examine their motives and actions, urging them to seek the praise of God above all else.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Many - will seek - They seek - wish and desire; but they do not strive; therefore, because they will not agonize - will not be in earnest, they shall not get in. See this subject more particularly explained on Mat 7:13, Mat 7:14 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Strive--The word signifies to "contend" as for the mastery, to "struggle," expressive of the difficulty of being saved, as if one would have to force his way in. strait gate--another figure of the same. (See on Mat 7:13-14). for many . . . will seek--"desire," that is, with a mere wish or slothful endeavor. and shall not be able--because it must be made a life-and-death struggle.
John Gill Bible Commentary
When once the master of the house is risen up,.... From table, or off of his couch, the entertainment being over: and so here, the Gospel feast, or dispensation, being at an end, and all the guests come in, who were effectually called, and long patience and forbearance being used towards others; or has entered in, as the Vulgate Latin version reads, and so Beza's ancient copy, and one of Stephens's; is come from the wedding; see Luk 12:36 Christ having espoused all his elect to himself, by the ministry of the word: for by "the master of the house" is meant, the bridegroom of the church, the head of the body, the King of saints, who is Son over his own house, and high priest there; of whom the whole family in heaven and earth, is named: and hath shut to the door; the door of mercy and of hope; the door of faith; the preaching of the word, and the administration of ordinances, when these shall be no more: and ye begin to stand without; or "do stand without"; without the holy city, where dogs are; having no admittance to the nuptial chamber, to the marriage supper of the Lamb, and the joys of heaven: and to knock at the door; which shows how near some persons may come to heaven, and yet not enter there, even to the very door; and what an expectation, yea, an assurance they may have, of admission into it, not at all doubting of it; and therefore knock as if they were some of the family, and had a right to enter; but not finding the door opened to them, so soon as they imagined, they begin to call as well as knock: saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; they acknowledge Christ to be Lord, as all will at the last day, to the glory of God the Father, even professors and profane; they repeat the word, to show the vehemency and earnestness of their entreaty; and according to the Syriac and, Persic versions, they claim an interest in Christ, which read, "our Lord, our Lord"; and on account of which they doubted not, but the door would be opened: but alas! he was only their Lord in a professional way; they had only called him Lord, Lord, but had never truly and heartily yielded obedience to him; their hearts had never been opened to him, and he had never had a place there, nor his Gospel; wherefore though they knock, he will not open; and he shall answer and say unto you. The Persic version adds, "nay, but be ye gone hence", for the following reason, I know you not, whence you are: not but that Christ being the omniscient God, will know who they are, from whence they come, of what country and place they be, and to whom they belong; but the sense is, that he will not own them, and express any approbation of them, as his; but will treat them as strangers, that come, it is not known, from whence; he will reject them, as not being born from above, as not being the sheep of his fold, or members of his true church: they did not come from heaven, they were not heaven born souls, or partakers of the heavenly calling, and therefore shall not be received there; they belonged to the men of the world, and were of their father the devil, and shall be sent to him: so the foolish virgins, or formal professors of religion, and such as have been preachers of the Gospel, will entreat Christ at the last day, and shall have such an answer as this returned to them, which will be very awful and startling; See Gill on Mat 7:23, Mat 25:12.