The narrow way and the broad way
Passage: Matthew 7:13-14 Preacher: Mark Kingston
QUICK RECAP
Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount offers a powerful invitation: will you say “yes” or “no” to a new identity, mission, and way of life? He calls us to be God’s representatives, a light in the world, and to live out radical, practical love. With these teachings, He brings us to a decision point: which path will we choose?
The broad way is easy, familiar, and popular. It’s the path of least resistance—living for comfort, avoiding challenges, and focusing on yourself. It’s often disguised as harmless or even good, but Jesus warns it leads to destruction—not just eternal judgment but the emptiness of a life that misses its purpose.
The narrow way, is harder to spot and harder to walk. It’s tight, demanding, and countercultural. It means forgiving when it hurts, trusting God instead of clinging to control, and loving in ways that cost you. This path can feel lonely and uncomfortable, but it leads to real life—filled with purpose, abundance, and God’s presence.
Throughout Scripture, God offers this choice: Adam and Eve, Noah’s ark, and the Passover door all echo this same decision. The narrow way isn’t just a hard slog—it’s where we encounter God and discover who we’re truly meant to be.
So, what’s your “Shire”—the comfort Jesus is calling you to leave behind? The narrow way is challenging, but you’re never alone. Jesus walks with you, and we’ll walk with you too. So - let’s say yes to the adventure!
5 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU DIG DEEPER
These questions are designed to help you dive a little deeper into this topic. They're not just for your head, but for your heart too, so take your time with them. Maybe grab a coffee, find a quiet spot, and really let them sink in.
Identity, Mission, Way of Life
Jesus calls us to a new identity, mission, and way of life. Thinking back over recent weeks, which bit of Jesus sermon has impacted you the most?
An Everyday Choice
The narrow way isn’t just a one-time decision. It’s a daily challenge to depend on God. Does that challenge the way you think about following Jesus every day?
The Broad Way
Are there places in your life where you know you are choosing ease, comfort, or fear instead of courage and faith? Take a moment to talk with God about it…
Past Experiences of the Narrow Way
Think about a time when you’ve chosen to follow the narrow way in the past. What was it like? What did you learn about God and yourself through that experience?
Where Is God Calling You Now?
Is there an area of your life where God might be inviting you to step out of comfort and into deeper dependence on Him? What would it look like to trust Him and walk the narrow way in this moment?
