Through some research I found that I discussed Matthew 7: 13-14 in both of my British thesis degrees and also on this website in archives.
MPhil, Bangor University, 2003: The Problem of Evil: Anglican and Baptist Perspectives
In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus stated that the majority found their way to destruction, and a minority to life, so even with the possible truth of suffering as lesson, it appears that although lessons can be learned, that most people do not come to God through these lessons in suffering. Now, if many believers in Christ grow spiritually through pain and suffering then I suppose it worthwhile nonetheless.
PhD, University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, Lampeter, 2010: Theodicy and Practical Theology
In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus uses an illustration relating to the ultimate destiny of individuals and explains that few persons enter by the narrow gate, and the wide and broad way of destruction is found by many. France (2001: 146). R.T. France (2001) explains that from these verses, and the perspective of Christ, true discipleship is a minority religion. France (2001: 146). He notes that in context, the narrow way should not so much be understood to be a difficult or hard path to travel on, but rather should be viewed as a restricted path. France (2001: 147). The narrow way of Christian discipleship is restrictive, and requires a particular type of religious devotion taught further by Christ and his Apostles. France (2001: 147). Admittedly non-Christian worldviews can contain much truth.
There are many religions and religious persons in the world, but the restrictive nature of Christ’s gospel requires God to enlighten persons to what Christian tradition understands as true religion, as opposed to human attempts at religion. Within a sovereignty perspective, God will choose whom he wills to be present in his culminated Kingdom. This idea is a key aspect of sovereignty theodicy, as God’s election of some is very important in the creator overcoming the problem of evil and ultimately culminating a Kingdom.
FRANCE, R.T. (2001) Matthew, Grand Rapids, Eerdmans.
Universalism July 2007
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