The Narrow PathSample

Finding Freedom

Jesus’s teachings undermine the prevailing notions of wisdom and power in his first-century context and ours as well. We learn that what the world prizes, Jesus devalues, and what Jesus applauds, the world rejects. As we pay close attention to his surprising perspectives, we will live in a freedom we never would have known otherwise.

But let’s be honest: Jesus’s teaching about two paths is a bit intimidating. Isn’t life more nuanced and complex than this? It confounds us. It even offends us.

But Jesus isn’t referring to a path “good” people take and a path “bad” people take. God wants to form the entirety of us, and a large part of that formation requires us to name our false assumptions about him and what he calls us to.

How do we know if we are on the broad path or the narrow way? The Sermon on the Mount helps answer that question, showing us that serving God is possible without walking with him. In other words, we can be on the broad path without knowing it.

Let’s simplify this into three statements. You may be on the broad path if…

1. You believe God cares about only your behavior, not your heart (moralism).
2. You have a superficial vision of what “the good life” is (success-ism).
3. You see spirituality as just you and God (individualism).

The convergence of these three problems serves as the root of our spiritual brokenness. They constitute the broad path—the path most take, which is sure to leave us unfulfilled and empty.

Thankfully, the narrow path is for the spiritually hungry, not the elite. If you choose to follow Jesus down this path, he will meet you in unexpected ways. Yes, he may tear down the false self you’ve built, but rather than erasing your identity, you will become your full and true self. You’ll discover life as an easy yoke and light burden. You’ll encounter the grace of God that empowers you to live a truly significant life.

Is this easy? Not one bit. Is it worth it? As Jesus puts it, you’ll discover life “to the full” (John 10:10).

God, show me ways I am succumbing to the temptations of the broad path: moralism, success-ism, and individualism. Lead me to find spiritual wholeness and freedom in you. Amen.