The Narrow Door
Text: Luke 13:18-30
- What is the point of the two similitudes about the Kingdom of God (vv. 18-21)?
- In verse 23 Jesus deflects the speculative question of v. 23 to address a more practical and crucial concern in verse 24. There is a subtle message for us in His ignoring the former and concentrating on the latter. What is it?
- In verse 24 what does Jesus mean by entering the Kingdom of God (or the way of salvation) “by the narrow door?” By God’s grace we are saved through faith (in Jesus Christ) alone; it is not of (human) merit or works lest anyone should brag about their achievement. (Ephesians 2:8) However this “narrow door” expression makes it sound as if it is hard to be saved, based on human effort. Explain how entering the Kingdom of God (the sphere where Christ rules our lives) is at once simple and easy (by grace through faith alone) but yet challenging on the human side.
- In verse 25-29 Jesus makes a huge point to His Jewish audience (and beyond) about the importance of a timely response to His invitation to be a part of God’s kingdom. How did that apply to His Jewish contemporaries? By extension what is the message to those today who keep deferring their opportunities to receive the King?