Luke 13:24

24 Strive ye to enter by the strait gate; for I say to you, many seek to enter [in], and they shall not be able.

Luke 13:24 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 13:24

Strive to enter in at the strait gate
What is meant by the strait gate, and by entering in at it, (See Gill on Matthew 7:13). To "strive", is to be diligent in the use of means; to search the Scriptures with care; to attend on the preaching of the word with constancy, neglecting no opportunity; to pray earnestly for spiritual light, knowledge, and grace; to contend with every enemy that opposes the salvation of the soul, as sin, Satan, and the world; to bear all reproaches and persecutions, and press through all difficulties, for the prize of the incorruptible crown: the metaphor seems to be taken from the striving, wrestling, and combat in the Olympic games, for a corruptible crown:

for many I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be
able:
either when it is too late, when the door is shut; or else before, very faintly, in a superficial manner, from a mere natural affection, from a principle of self-love, which leads every one to desire happiness; and by very indirect and improper methods, by their own civility, morality, and righteousness; by works of the law, moral, or ceremonial; or by a profession of religion, and an outward compliance with the ordinances of the Gospel, and not by Christ, and faith in him.

Luke 13:24 In-Context

22 And he went by cities and castles, teaching and making journey into Jerusalem.

23 And a man said to him, Lord, if there be few, that be saved? And he said to them,

24 Strive ye to enter by the strait gate; for I say to you, many seek to enter [in], and they shall not be able.

25 For when the husbandman is entered, and the door is closed [Forsooth when the husbandman hath entered and closed the door], ye shall begin to stand withoutforth, and knock at the door, and say [saying], Lord, open to us. And he shall answer, and say to you, I know you not, of whence ye be.

26 Then ye shall begin to say, We have eaten before thee and drunk [We have eaten and drunk before thee], and in our streets thou hast taught.