Spiritual Principle of “Entering and Walking” (Matthew 7:13–14)

 

Spiritual Principle of “Entering and Walking” (Matthew 7:13–14)

Matthew 7:13–14 – “Enter in through the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction… narrow is the gate and constricted the way that leads to life.” 

Aspect	Spiritual Principle of “Entering and Walking” (Matthew 7:13–14)
Meaning	“Entering the gate” represents initial salvation and union with Christ. “Walking the path” represents the continuous experience and living out of Christ in daily life. Both are indispensable for a balanced Christian walk.
Reason	God’s design for believers includes both a beginning (the narrow gate) and a process (the narrow way). Without entering the gate, there is no true beginning; without walking, there is no progress.
Distinction	The gate relates to faith and regeneration—an entrance by grace. The way relates to obedience and sanctification—a progressive living in truth.
Explanation	Many emphasize the entrance—salvation by grace—but neglect the ongoing walk of obedience and spiritual growth. Others emphasize conduct without genuine conversion. Both are incomplete.
Purpose	To experience the full reality of Christ as “the Way, the Reality, and the Life” (John 14:6). God wants His people not only to enter Christ but to walk and grow in Him.
Examples	- Israel entering the Red Sea (entrance) and walking in the wilderness (journey). - Believers entering through Christ (John 10:9) and walking in newness of life (Rom. 6:4).
Application	Believers must examine both their entrance (true faith and consecration) and their walk (daily obedience, growth, and warfare). Spiritual progress requires both.
Interrelation	The gate and the path are inseparable. Entering brings position; walking brings transformation. Without the gate, the path cannot begin; without the path, the gate is in vain.
Burden	The church must lead believers not only to be saved but also to advance—step by step, conquering, overcoming, and possessing what God has promised.
Prophetic Guidance	God’s people must learn to “pass the gate” through revelation of Christ and to “walk the way” by faith and obedience. Every step forward rests upon what God has once shown.
Conclusion	Spiritual life is both entrance and progress—first crossing the threshold of faith, then walking faithfully with the Lord. Both are required for maturity and fruitfulness.
Related  Scriptures	Matthew 7:13–14 – “Enter in through the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction… narrow is the gate and constricted the way that leads to life.” John 14:6 – “Jesus said to him, I am the way and the reality and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me.” Romans 6:4 – “We have been buried with Him through baptism into death… so we also should walk in newness of life.” Colossians 2:6 – “As therefore you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in Him.”

 *Please refer to Brother Watchman Nee's message: Door and Way