Sermon 110

📖 Sermon 110 – The Strait Gate

Date: [no date given]
Text: Luke 13:22–30

Introduction

A question was put to Jesus: “Lord, are there few that be saved?” He does not answer with statistics but with an urgent command: “Strive to enter in at the strait gate.” The focus is not curiosity but personal responsibility.

I. The Strait Gate

A. A narrow entrance
The Gospel calls us to repentance and faith — a turning from sin and self to Christ.

B. Many seek to enter but cannot
Seeking is not enough without surrender.
They want salvation without repentance, comfort without obedience, Christ without the cross.

C. The gate is open now
The day of grace is present and real — but it will not last forever.

II. The Closed Door

A. When the master shuts the door
Judgment comes suddenly. The opportunity is gone forever.

B. Vain pleas
“We have eaten and drunk in Thy presence.” External association with Christ is not salvation. Church attendance, knowledge, and religious habit cannot replace true repentance and faith.

C. The dreadful words
“I know you not.” A life without conversion ends in eternal separation.

III. The Great Reversal

A. Many from far will enter the Kingdom
From east, west, north, and south — the Gospel will gather a multitude.

B. Those first in privilege may be last in salvation
Hearing is not the same as believing.
Knowing is not the same as obeying.

C. The warning for all
“Behold, there are last which shall be first, and first which shall be last.”

Conclusion

The question is not how many will be saved, but whether you will enter the strait gate. The door of grace stands open today. Strive to enter — repent, believe, and follow Christ before the door closes forever.