Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "broad way" in Scripture is a metaphorical representation of the path leading to destruction, characterized by sin and disobedience to God's commandments. This imagery is most prominently found in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who contrasts the broad way with the narrow way that leads to life.Biblical Foundation In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus articulates this dichotomy: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it" (Matthew 7:13). This passage highlights the ease and popularity of the broad way, suggesting that it is the path chosen by the majority, yet it ultimately leads to spiritual ruin. Characteristics of the Broad Way 1. Ease and Popularity: The broad way is appealing because it requires little resistance or sacrifice. It is the path of least resistance, where individuals follow their natural inclinations and societal norms without regard for divine instruction. Proverbs 14:12 warns, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death" . 2. Moral Relativism: Those on the broad way often embrace moral relativism, rejecting absolute truths in favor of subjective morality. This is contrary to the biblical call for holiness and adherence to God's statutes. Romans 1:21-22 describes the futility of such thinking: "For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts." 3. Rejection of God's Authority: Walking the broad way involves a conscious or unconscious rejection of God's authority and a preference for self-rule. This rebellion is reminiscent of the original sin in the Garden of Eden, where Adam and Eve chose their own desires over God's command (Genesis 3:1-6). 4. Worldly Desires: The broad way is marked by the pursuit of worldly desires and pleasures. 1 John 2:16 warns against such pursuits: "For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not from the Father but from the world" . Consequences of the Broad Way The ultimate consequence of following the broad way is spiritual destruction and separation from God. Jesus' warning in Matthew 7:13 underscores the gravity of this path, as it leads to eternal separation from the presence of God. The broad way is deceptive, offering temporary satisfaction but resulting in eternal loss. Call to Choose the Narrow Way Scripture consistently calls believers to choose the narrow way, which, though difficult and less traveled, leads to eternal life. This path requires self-denial, obedience, and a commitment to follow Christ. Jesus emphasizes the importance of this choice in Matthew 7:14: "But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it" . In summary, the broad way is a metaphor for a life lived in opposition to God's will, characterized by ease, moral compromise, and ultimate destruction. The Bible urges individuals to forsake this path and seek the narrow way that leads to life and communion with God. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 7:13Enter you in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leads to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Nave's Topical Index Library Fourth Sunday in Lent. Grant, we Beseech Thee, Almighty God, that ... The Broad Wall Servants of Sin. Upon Our Lord's SermonOn the Mount The Growth and Power of Sin The Apostasy which Prepares the Way for the Antichrist. Sin is Spiritual Slavery Wary Walking. Whether all Dissimulation is a Sin? The Original and the Actual Relation of Man to Law. Resources What is a Third Way church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is “the Way” in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is The Way International? | GotQuestions.org Way: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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