Sermon on the Mount – The Narrow Gate
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Sermon on the Mount – The Narrow Gate
Introduction
This sermon, delivered by Matthew Vander Els of the Founded in Truth Fellowship, concludes an extensive series on Yeshua’s Sermon on the Mount. The Sermon is viewed as a manifesto of the Kingdom of God, illustrating a new way of living that contrasts the world’s norms. Vander Els stresses that Yeshua’s message challenges us to evaluate our true allegiance. It’s about deciding which path we’ll take and which gate we’ll enter, setting the course of our lives in alignment with God’s kingdom.
The Narrow Gate vs. The Wide Gate
Matthew 7:13 serves as the pivotal scripture for this message: “Enter through the narrow gate, for the gate is wide and the road is easy that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.” Vander Els emphasizes that Yeshua contrasts the easy, broad way that leads to ruin with the challenging, narrow path that brings life. This gate imagery was potent in Yeshua’s time, as gates symbolized power, community, and identity. They were not just physical doorways but indicators of one’s allegiance.
Historical Context of Gates
Vander Els delves into history, highlighting arches and gates like Rome’s Arch of Titus, which was erected to celebrate Roman victories, including the destruction of Jerusalem. These structures commemorated empire victories but served as powerful reminders of oppression. The arches, adorned with images of victory, symbolize the way empires impose their dominance—a stark contrast to Yeshua’s message of subversion and serving a higher kingdom.
The Broad Road’s Seduction
Yeshua’s teaching isn’t just about avoiding sinful behaviors but rejecting the values that dominate the world and lead to inner and outer ruin. Vander Els notes that the broad road represents a life cut short from its God-given purpose, characterized by hate, division, and self-justification. This road is seductive because it is easy, popular, and offers immediate gratification, but it ultimately leads to spiritual and relational decay.
The Narrow Road’s Challenge
The narrow road, however, is constricting and requires intentional choices. Vander Els emphasizes that this path is aligned with God’s kingdom, characterized by love, humility, justice, and a rejection of domination. This path is not about superficial religious actions but a heart commitment to live in allegiance to Yeshua’s way even when it is countercultural.
Practical Applications
- Love Your Enemies: Engage in active love and prayer for those who oppose you. It’s about embodying Yeshua’s call to love authentically.
- Forgiveness: Embrace forgiveness over retaliation and bitterness, trusting in God’s justice over personal vengeance.
- Generosity: Reject the consumerist lie that happiness comes from material wealth. Share resources, time, and energy with others.
- Humility: Relinquish the need for control and recognition, focusing instead on serving others and promoting justice.
A Call to Allegiance
Vander Els challenges us to consider how we might be tempted by the broad roads today. These temptations include prioritizing personal success or national identity over allegiance to Yeshua, engaging in divisive rhetoric, or remaining silent in the face of injustice. The choice to walk the narrow path involves making daily decisions that reflect God’s kingdom over worldly values.
Biblical Framework for Life Choices
The sermon emphasizes that life is full of choices, like the doors seen throughout Scripture—from Eden to the Passover, each presenting a choice between life and death. Vander Els illustrates how the narrow path aligns with scriptural mandates, urging us to choose life and advocate for God’s kingdom in our daily lives.
Conclusion
Yeshua’s call is for us to reject the empire’s ways and embrace a kingdom defined by love and righteousness. Vander Els ends with a prayer, inviting congregants to choose the narrow gate and commit to paths that foster life, peace, and justice in God’s kingdom. As we navigate the world, this message serves as a call to embody Yeshua’s transformative way in every aspect of our lives.
Referenced Bible Verses
Recommended Resources
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