Two Ways Ahead: Which One Will We Choose?
Brian R. Kenyon

God told the children of Israel right before entering into the promised land, "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live" (Deut. 30:19). From this we learn two fundamental truths. First, God gives us the choice to either follow Him or not follow Him. He does not override our ability to choose. We were not created as robots. Second, God wants us to "choose life." While God does not force us to do anything against our will, He has providentially provided the opportunity for us to choose the right way (cf. Acts 17:26-28). Will we choose the "way of life" or the "way of death"?

Jesus told His disciples, "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it" (Mt. 7:13-14). With this, Jesus immediately presents us with a choice. He even tells us which choice is correct. However, we must choose for ourselves the right way (cf. Josh. 24:15).

First, there is the choice of the "wide gate" and "broad way" (Mt. 7:13b). This way is very obvious and easy to find. It has no restrictions. One does not have to deliberately travel this way. It is so "wide" and "broad" that it accommodates the masses. However, at the end of this way is eternal "destruction." Because of its ease and popularity, "many" will travel this way, only to receive the eternal torment that awaits.

Second, there is the choice of the "strait [narrow, NKJ] gate" and the "narrow [difficult, NKJ] way" (Mt. 7:13a, 14). This is the choice that Jesus urges us to make, but, again, we must make the choice. This way is less obvious and very difficult compared to the other way. Unlike the "wide" and "broad" way, no one can travel this way by accident. Traveling here must be deliberate and requires much effort (Lk. 13:24). True discipleship is not easy. Could this be why so few find it? At the end of this way is eternal "life." Which way will we choose: the way that results in eternal punishment or the way that results in eternal life?