In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus said, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” When Jesus taught about eternity, He spoke of two eternal destinations. One is a place of peace and rest, while the other is a place of torment and fiery pain. In Luke 16:24, one in torment spoke of his pain, saying, “Father, Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.” That side of eternity is pain-filled and without reprieve.
God does not desire for anyone to enter that place of torment. It is the desire of God that all people would repent and be saved (2 Peter 3:9). Even though God desperately wants you to be saved, He gives you complete freedom to choose your own path. The path to eternal torment is easy to find: live wild and free, give yourself to every physical pleasure and every impulse of your flesh, and you will walk the path of eternal suffering without fail (Galatians 5:19-21). The path to life is more difficult. It requires you to see through the passing pleasures offered by sin and instead seek a home with God, where you will enjoy eternal peace and joy (Hebrews 11:24-26).
The question each person must answer is, “Where do I want to spend eternity?” Each person’s life is their answer to that question. If you do not like your present answer, God is giving you time to change it today. Obey the gospel, begin walking the narrow way by repenting of your sins and being baptized in Jesus name to be forgiven of them (Acts 2:38). Your walk on the narrow path will contain slips, but if you continue pressing forward to the goal through obedience to the Scriptures, you will find God’s approval and eternal life (Philippians 3:13-14).